Edition 160
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UNCERTAIN FUTURE AFTER SHOCK CLOSURE OF LEWESTON
D E S O L C e l a F V U L L e r o STOR m
Community rallies in support of families and staff after half-term announcement - as MPs pledge investigation...
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PEACEFUL PROTEST Demo in opposition to military factory plan PAGE 3
PROTECT YOURSELF Ladies Circle looks forward to a busy year ahead PAGE 4
PICTURE PERFECT Stroke unit transformed with colourful artwork PAGE 28
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What’s inside this issue…
• Main pic: Rotary volunteers check boxes of gifts donated for children overseas page 24 • Above: Carnival organisers thank record number of supporters page 18 • Left: Blandford Camera Club celebrates its award-winner photographers page 11
Announcements Antiques & Collectables Arts & Entertainment Black Friday Sale Feature Church Events Farming Field & Stream Food & Drink Health & Wellbeing History Home & Garden
EDITORIAL Paul Jones - Editor in Chief We love hearing your news and views. Get in touch with us by emailing newsdesk@blackmorevale.net or calling 01963 400186
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Protesters march against military drone factory plan near Vale village “I HAVE a young family, and the thought of having a weapons production facility next door fills me with horror.” So said one of scores of protesters who gathered in Semley to demonstrate against plans for a five-acre factory – which could be used to manufacture military drones. The demonstration, on the village green and processing through the village, was in opposition to plans submitted to Wiltshire Council by Brimble Lea on behalf of Chaldicotts Ltd, for a factory near the Chaldicotts Barns development. It is understood the application is for a new factory for Rotron Aerospace, a UK drone manufacturer which was acquired by US autonomous strike technology developer, Ondas Inc, in March. But the plans have provoked anger among residents of the village, who fear it could become a major military drone manufacturer – and a target for attack. The group of Semley residents and supporters gathered on the green before marching to Chaldicott Barns, to voice their
opposition to the scheme. Among them was resident, Lily, who said: “I wanted to be on the march to show my opposition to this dreadful proposal, because I have a young family, and the thought of having a weapons production facility next door fills me with horror. “I worry that it will become a target, as Putin has clearly indicated, and I don’t want my children to become ‘collateral damage’ as global warmongering escalates yet further.”
Stephen, a Semley resident who joined the demonstration, said: “An examination of the planning application reveals a number of areas of significant concern, from the impact on the environment, the security risks to the neighbourhood, the major increase in traffic movements on narrow, poorly maintained country roads, to the profound impact on the National Landscape designation of the area. “This really is the wrong project in the wrong place.” The planning application outlines plans for a new high-security aerospace and defence manufacturing facility, measuring some 80,000 square feet, and almost 10 metres tall. Built without windows and surrounded by a 3m-high security fence, the building is designed to blend with the landscape, the application said, including khaki, olive and camouflage green cladding. For more details and to comment, log on to www.wiltshire.gov.uk and search application reference PL/2026/06275.
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Ladies Circle has big plans MEMBERS of Gillingham & Shaftesbury Ladies Circle have had a busy first year since the club was brought back to life. Chair Michaela Skillings organised the first meet-up last November and the group officially re-chartered in April. Bea Fleming, from the group, said: “We have already grown to 12 members, and since that first meeting we’ve made new friendships, tried new experiences, supported good causes and had plenty of laughs along the way.” Activities have included line dancing, archery, canoeing, axe throwing, aerial hoops, laser tag, an escape room in Salisbury, pottery at Sophie’s Ceramics in Shaftesbury and board game nights. Members have also enjoyed a herbal balm-making workshop with Nicola Bradshaw, medical herbalist from Hedonic Herbs, and a wellbeing and facial yoga evening with a workshop hosted by HolisticWorks. Memorable outings have
included an outdoor cinema screening of Dirty Dancing at Stourhead. Members-only meet-ups included a visit to The Plaza Cinema in Wincanton to see The Devil Wears Prada 2 and a get-together at Pip’s of Gill. Some members also travelled to Coventry to celebrate the 90th birthday of Ladies Circle, joining Circlers from across the world to mark the milestone. Gillingham & Shaftesbury Ladies Circle has also supported Ealson Carnival Club and Tim from St Mary’s Gillingham Scouts at their bingo night fundraiser. The group also attended and donated to the vintage high tea and market at Motcombe Memorial Hall, supporting orphanages and postpartum mothers in Zimbabwe and raising awareness of maternal mental health and postpartum
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depression. Bea said: “Membership is about friendship, new experiences and being part of a supportive community. “We’re incredibly
proud of how far we’ve come in our first year, but we’re only getting started – with lots more planned for 2027! “If you’d like to meet new people, make friends and try something different, Gillingham & Shaftesbury Ladies Circle would love to welcome you.” Member benefits include access to the group’s Book
Club, Board Games Club, Spond community and members-only meet-ups, as well as organised socials, activities and trips. Members also have access to local, national and international Ladies Circle events, providing opportunities to meet other Circlers, make new friendships and be part of the wider Ladies Circle community. Opportunities also exist to fundraise, support charities, help organise activities or take on roles. Ladies Circle is part of the wider Round Table family with organisations including Round Table for men aged 18-45, 41 Club for men over 45 and Tangent for women over 45.
STURMINSTER Mill will be the subject of a talk at the Bow Room in The Exchange at Sturminster Newton. The talk, promoted by the Blackmore Vale group of the Somerset and Dorset Family History Society and Sturminster Newton Heritage Trust, is being
given by Sturminster's miller, Peter Loosmore. It is on Wednesday, November 18, and entry is £4. For more information, phone Felicity Harrison on 01258 472942. Hot and cold drinks are available at the bar.
Miller shares secret history
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Marathon effort
by Kate Hoare SUNDAY, April 25, 2027 will see me run my first ever marathon – not just any old marathon, but the one with probably the biggest public spotlight: London. I am 55 years old, mum to three teenagers, wife of Simon Hoare MP; I have two dogs and a flock of sheep. Many of my family and friends think I am ‘brave’, ‘courageous’ or ‘mad’. I have only ever run around Dorset or Pembrokeshire before and have never taken part in a formal race. Still less, run alongside thousands of other people in front of TV cameras. Notwithstanding the scale of the task I have set myself, I am very excited. Securing a place is not guaranteed; I was lucky enough to be talking about running to the Earl of Shaftesbury, when he suggested I might get a place running for one of the charities he is involved with: Shaftesbury. The Earl is vice-patron of the charity, founded by his ancestor, the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury, in 1844. Shaftesbury is a national disability charity supporting more than 4,000 children, young people and adults a year across its network of services. Those services in Dorset include a specialist school in Poole and a nearby college, a residential home for young adults with complex needs and A30 from Sherborne living several supported services that enable people with disabilities to live within their communities. The London Marathon isn’t a race – it’s an all-consuming, life-altering preparation. My revised approach to marathon training is underway. I am rom Dorchester extremely thankful to some very supportive friends who are helping me in this endeavour and trying to keep me on the level. Sophie Dakers is an exceptional coach/personal trainer who I met through
one of the classes she runs at Gillingham’s Riversmeet Leisure Centre. I have been attending these for a few years and she has kindly devised a strength and nutrition programme for me (@ futureformfitness). Pete Roper (www. peteropermassage.com) is based in East Stour next to the Udder Farm Shop. A keen runner himself, he helps me with deep tissue massage and motivational training advice. Not only is he hugely supportive, he will play an important role in keeping me pain and injury free. I am also using osteopath Robert Forrest in Blandford, who helps with aches and pains that affect runners, and physiotherapist Ali Chambler (Glencairn House, Sherborne). With their combined assistance, I aim to get to the start line injury free. With a charity place, my goal is to raise a minimum of £2,000 and every penny counts. I can say first-hand that the work the charity does in supporting disabled people is quite extraordinary and I am honoured to be representing them next year. To find out more, please visit www. shaftesburygroup.org. I would be so grateful for any donation you may feel able to give. To donate, please visit www.justgiving.com/page/ kate-hoare-londonmarathon-2027. You can follow my marathon training, on Instagram @ marathon_kate2027.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
News
Time to Good vibrations remember WINCANTON’S Remembrance Parade will be held this Sunday, November 8. The Parade will march off from the War Memorial Hall at 10.20am to the Parish Church for a service at 10.45am. On Armistice Day, November 11, Wincanton and District RBL will hold a short Service of Remembrance at the war memorial. Those wishing to attend should arrive no later than 10.45am. There will be second short Service of Remembrance at the Bayford memorial to the crew of US Bomber Old Faithful which crashed just outside Wincanton during World War 2.
Let’s get quizzical
THE Dorchester Committee of the Children's Society is holding a fundraising quiz night. Enter as a team of six, or join a committee team. The quiz will be held at St George’s church hall, Fordington, Dorchester (DT1 1LB) on Saturday, November 21. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.15pm start. Tickets are £10 each, to include a ploughman’s supper. Please bring your own drinks. Ticket enquires to Jane Culliford on 01305 264360.
MUSICIAN Dean Carter will be presenting singing bowl soundbaths at venues in the Blackmore Vale this month. He says the sessions will offer an opportunity to relax, reset and detox. Sessions are at: Digby Memorial Church Hall, (Griffiths Room) Sherborne on Monday, November
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9, 7.30pm-9pm. The Heritage Suite, 43 Bell Street, Shaftesbury, on Sunday, November 15, 2pm-2.30pm. Oborne village hall, Oborne, on Sunday, November 29, 2pm-4pm.
Make do and mend
THE Repair Café in Netherbury is holding its final event of the year later this month. Visitors can take along broken items for volunteers to repair – although they should also supply any spare parts that may be needed. Volunteers can sharpen knives and fix bikes, textiles, ceramics, wooden and metal items, and this time a new volunteer will be able to look at electrical items. The cafe offers home-made cakes, coffee and a range of Clipper teas, and is vegan and vegetarian friendly. Andy McEwen, from the Repair Café, said: “We are always looking for new volunteers and so if you love fixing things, baking or being part of a fun community event, come and join us.” For more information, contact Lisa Willis on 07870 950666, email info@ repaircafenetherbury.org or visit www. repaircafenetherbury.org. The Repair Cafe is at Netherbury village hall on Sunday, November 28, 10am-noon.
The eyes have it
POOR vision costs lives. In 2025, 18 people sadly lost their lives on UK roads and around 3,000 are seriously injured every year due to drivers or riders with uncorrected or defective eyesight. Dorset Police is reminding motorists to check their vision meets minimum standards for driving. You must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away (about the length of five parked cars). Find out more at www.gov.uk/ driving-eyesight-rules.
A walk around… Hinton St Mary Photo © Mike Searle / geograph.org.uk
Soak up the scenery as you walk with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade
START at the church, which is unusual as it’s aligned at about 60 degrees rather than 90 (east – west) as decreed by the Synod of Whitby in 664AD. There was a Roman Villa close by with a mosaic displaying Christian symbols, so maybe the church is built on the footprint of an earlier one. Next to the church is the manor house, which has an impressive avenue of trees leading to and from it. After pottering around there and admiring the views , take the lane east towards Home Farm, then turn left and head north up the path to join the road, Stearts Lane. Turn left and head west towards the village. After a couple of bends you’ll find a path that takes you north down to and through a wood. At the end of the wood, turn left and head west across a field to meet a gate at a roadside. The gate is locked and the path goes south alongside the hedge for about 100
yards then through a gap in it. Cross the road and you’ll be close to a lay-by at the entrance to Leigh Lane, which takes you south west down to join the Stour Valley Way, near Cutt Mill. Follow the Stour, (which is the parish boundary) south, downstream, for a mile where it turns left. After a while, passing some woodland, go uphill to join the Hardy Way, which takes you north through, then next to, woodland and a field to reach Wood Lane, back in the village. Turn right and follow the road north east to meet the main road, the B3092. Cross the road and continue north east. Pass the pub and you’ll soon be back where you started, having walked about five miles.
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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News
All things Fair’s fair Diary sheep date NORTH Dorset MP Simon Hoare will be giving a talk at Cerne Sheep Group’s next meeting at the Fox at Ansty on Friday, November 13, at 7.30pm. The group’s Christmas Supper, also at The Fox, will be on Monday, December 14, at 7pm. Contact jill_hole@ outlook.com, 07971 742451.
Poppies on display
NETHERBURY Nature Group will be hosting a talk by Simon Brown on Underwater Wildlife later this month. The informal, friendly group was set up to make Netherbury a more wildlife-friendly village. The group holds regular meetings, puts on talks and other events, and engages in a variety of field work and projects. The talk is at Netherbury village hall on Friday, November 20, with doors open at 6.30pm. There is a cash bar and everyone is welcome, with admission £3. For more information, visit www. netherburynature.org/ nature2/menu.php.
ST MARY'S Church, Charminster, is holding a Christmas fair on Saturday, November 21, 11am-3pm. Organisers promise stalls with books, puzzles, a children's corner, nearly new gifts, bric-a-brac, cards, tombola and seasonal refreshments on offer. All are welcome.
THE Friends of Westminster Memorial Hospital are set to hold a Christmas bazaar at Shaftesbury Trinity Centre, on Saturday, November 14, 10am-noon. Organisers promise gifts and crafts, wreaths, tombola, raffle, coffee and cake.
B O U R N E M O U T H
THE Knit and Natter group which meets at the Gaggle of Geese pub in Buckland Newton has made more than 1,200 poppies now on display in the village church for Remembrance events.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Uncertainty looms over Leweston FAMILES, staff, students, MPs and the community have been left stunned by the sudden closure of Leweston School. The school community was left shocked after the sudden announcement of the school's immediate closure - which came during the half-term break. Around 550 pupils and dozens of staff members were left without a school place, or a job, or in some cases a place to live due to the decision. Now, MPs and families are calling for answers after details of behind-the-scenes business moves emerged in the aftermath of the announcement. Accounts from recent years show a changes in management and ownership of school elements, with trustees resigning and new ones appointed. Concept Education took on ownership of the school in December last year and in March this year, Leweston School (Sherborne) Limited took on a 'debenture' from HSBC, providing funds for the operation. However, it could not prevent
the closure, which left pupils and staff looking for new places and jobs. One teacher posted about their experience and said: “This half term has certainly not gone the way I expected. “On October 16, I waved goodbye to my students wishing them a wonderful half term, expecting to hear all about their adventures two weeks later. “The sudden and immediate closure of Leweston School has taken that away.” They said they were now looking for work after the closure, which had also taken away any opportunity to say goodbye to students. “It has been a tough few days, having to empty my flat and walk through an empty boarding house that should be getting ready to welcome the boys back in just a few days time,” the teacher went on. “We have been robbed of the opportunity to say goodbye to the students. It is heartbreaking to not have the opportunity to see my Year 11 and Year 13 students through their exams that we have worked so hard
Fairtrade community FAIRTRADE was celebrated at a cheese and wine evening at Shaftesbury Arts Centre for Shaftesbury’s local businesses and community leaders. Shaftesbury Fairtrade Group held the event to mark the renewal of the town’s Fairtrade Town status and to launch its new Fairtrade Shopping Directory, which lists all shops and cafes in town that sell or serve Fairtrade products. A spokesperson from the Fairtrade group said: “We were delighted to welcome our Mayor, Andy Hollingshead, and his wife, Carol, who stayed throughout the event to talk to business and community leaders and Fairtrade supporters.” The Fairtrade Group also displayed its new Fairtrade Town certificate. Shaftesbury Fairtrade Group works to raise awareness of Fairtrade to improve the lives of the people who produce crafts, food and drink, overseas and in the UK.
Leweston School has closed, with MPs including Edward Morello, inset, pledging to investigate
towards. “I have had a wonderful two years at Leweston and I was not ready for this chapter to end. I will always be grateful for the wonderful start to my teaching career that I have been given at Leweston.” Pupils have been guaranteed places at schools run by the Inspired Learning Group, Leweston said in the announcement. Now, MPs have also pledged to investigate the circumstances around the closure decision and the operations at Leweston in the months and years leading up to the move. West Dorset MP Edward Morello, whose constituency
includes Leweston, said: "A huge number of private schools have been in touch to say they can take students. Some are willing to match Leweston's fees structure. "A number have also said they'd have staff vacancies, again we can signpost to those staff members interested. "We are assisting a number of staff members access emergency financial support and help with bills/mortgages/etc, please do not hesitate to get in touch if you need help. "While the priority at the moment is supporting families and staff, there are serious questions to be asked of Concept Education. "I am in contact with the relevant authorities and regulators to make sure Concept are held accountable." Concept Education said it regretted the closure "in such sudden and upsetting circumstances" and has said it was appointing a liquidator. But the move has left families and staff in a position of uncertainty which is still evolving.
Back in the saddle THE ‘equestrian madness’ at the inaugural Shroton Hobby Horse Fair raised more than £1,600 towards the village hall’s refurbishment. Races included the Steepleton Chase, the Hanford Gallop to Glory and the Wessex Internet MANE event. The event also included show jumping and dressage, with an outrageous winning routine by Tom Fowler – and hobby horse – to Queen’s I Want to Break Free! Prizes were awarded for ‘Best Turned Out Pony’ and the entire day was made by Matthew House’s fluent and entertaining commentary and Tracy Briggs’ flawless choice of accompanying music to the event.
Emma House, for the event, said: “Shroton village hall committee is hugely grateful to the sponsors – Wessex Internet, Hanford School and Spinks Farriers. “Thank you to everyone who came and saddle up for next year!”.
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Our loose Canon Reflections on personal connections with Leweston School, and its closure by Canon Eric Woods LIKE many in our area, and beyond, I was both stunned and saddened by the announcement that Leweston School – formerly St Antony’s, Leweston – was closing its doors over half-term and would not reopen. I have a personal reason for my sadness, though not nearly as strong as those of staff, students and parents suddenly bereft of a school in the middle of term. Let me explain. When I arrived as Vicar of Sherborne in 1993, I soon became aware of St. Antony’s, a Roman Catholic Girls’ School in my benefice. I didn’t expect to have much to do with it, but by then the school was admitting non-Catholic girls and the Headmistress thought it important that the Vicar should give a talk at the morning service from time to time. She was Miss Denley-Lloyd – “Chris” – and we soon became good friends. When, not long after, I was rushed to hospital to have my appendix removed, the Headmistress of another local girls’ school was my first visitor, bringing with her applications for the post of Head of Theology for me to vet. Chris was not far behind, with a bottle of white wine for me to enjoy when I was allowed to drink again. You can imagine which bucked me up the most! And so my warm relations with St Anthony’s continued. When a much-loved Chaplain died suddenly on holiday, the then RC bishop
blackmorevale.net of Plymouth, Christopher Budd, insisted that I should robe at the funeral mass, though of course I did not go forward to receive Communion. Instead I went for a blessing, and he whispered in my ear, “Thank you for coming”. And so the relationship continued, until in 2003 the then Head appointed me Honorary Anglican Chaplain to the school. By then there were so many Anglican girls that we had to prepare them for Confirmation every other year. The school used the abbey for special occasions, not least their annual Carol Service. It was a special ecumenical relationship. Since then I have watched Leweston School grow and grow, from opening a nursery to welcoming boys into every stage of the academic year, up to and including the Sixth Form. Hence the shock that it has closed with 577 pupils on the books. I don’t know why this has happened, and will not speculate. But I am pretty sure that recent government policy is a major factor. I think that Jeremy Corbyn’s hatred of private education (despite his own) was continued by the last Chancellor of the Exchequer into imposing 20% VAT on private school fees in addition to stripping them of business rates tax relief. Add to that the large increase in National Insurance contributions, and independent schools have been left like sitting ducks. Leweston is said to be the 77th independent school to close since the last general election. “Class warfare” is an unpleasant thing – and I speak as a proud grammar schoolboy. Now nearly 600 pupils need to find new schools, fast. Some will go to other independent schools. But my guess is that many will be adding to the demand on our state schools. And who exactly is the winner?
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Picture perfect BLANDFORD Forum Camera Club embraced the inclement weather and pushed on with its 5-5-5 challenge in which entrants take five photos on five themes in five hours. Debbie Davies’s photo All themes were won the 5-5-5 challenge achievable inside or out and the winners were: theme 1 – Frame within a Frame, Kathryne Abbott; theme 2 – Reflections, Alison Vokins; theme 3 – Out of Place, Alison Vokins; theme 4 – Something Tasty, Rob Young; theme 5 – Hands or Feet, Debbie Davies – her photo was also the overall winner. The latest interclub competition was ‘Match an Image’, against Ringwood and Shaftesbury, in which quirky images are presented for the judge to ‘match’ between the teams. Blandford won this time. The next educational offering is editing digital Diptychs. Guest speakers will also be visiting the club. Blandford Forum Camera Club prides itself on being welcoming, educational and light-hearted. A spokesperson said: “We don’t mind if you use a mobile phone, camera or don’t even currently take photographs – come along, get inspired and meet the members.” For more information, visit www.bfcclub.co.uk.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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A tale of treasure by Geoff McHugh
IN 2010, Dave Crisp was out with his metal detector near Frome, when he discovered a pot containing 52,503 Roman coins dating from 253 to 305 CE. The hoard was buried during a period of great upheaval in the Roman Empire. We’ll never know why the owners didn’t come back for it.
The public purchase price was £320,000 (half to Dave, half to the farmer), so about £6 a coin. In its heyday, Rome minted silver coins, but as the Empire declined so did the coinage. The Frome hoard contains just five silver coins; the rest are copper. But the hoard still represents about four years’ salary for a
Boot Week at Shirley Allum ADVERTISING FEATURE
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rom Monday 9th to Saturday 14th November, Shirley Allum on Shaftesbury High Street is giving the week over to boots. Every brand is on show, from sturdy pull-ons for muddy dog walks to smarter ankle boots for work and evenings out. One day is worth putting in the diary. On Tuesday 10th November, Ben from Blundstone and Fly London is in the shop from 10am to 3pm. He knows his boots inside out, so ask him which fit suits a wider foot, or how a pair will hold up through a Dorset winter. There is a prize draw for Blundstone and Gabor too. Buy either brand
during the week and you are entered to win a pair of that brand’s boots. It is one entry per customer for each draw, and both are drawn at 5pm on Saturday 14th November. Can’t get to Shaftesbury? The boots are online at shirleyallum.co.uk, and online orders of Blundstone or Gabor go into the draw too. Shirley has been dressing the women of Dorset since 1997 and still chooses every pair herself. 30 High Street, Shaftesbury. Monday to Saturday, 9.30am to 5pm. 01747 852444.
(very well paid) Roman legionary. The silver coin shown above is a denarius of Emperor Carausius from the hoard. Nearly 800 of his coins were in the pot. Never heard of him? Next time… the amazing story of Carausius: pirate and rebel Emperor of Britain.
Where does the wind come from? REAL answers to real questions youngsters ask are given in the Mr Lightbulb children’s book series. Now the latest book is out, Where Does the Wind Come From?, with pictures by Anne-Louise Richards, from Shaftesbury, and words by Tony Deyes. The book follows previous titles Who is the Man in the Moon?, What Makes the Waves Come and Go? and Why do the Leaves Fall off the Trees? All the books are available from Folde’s independent bookshop in Shaftesbury or via www.thelightbulbfamily.co.uk.
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The Bridles Luxury new care home in Wincanton Nursing | Residential | Dementia care The Bridles Care Home,
Dykes Way, Wincanton BA9 9FQ
Book a visit? Need advice? Give us a call
01963 650 176
Lines are open 8am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 12.30pm Saturday. We may record or monitor our calls.
We’d love to see you at our community events Coffee Morning Every Friday, 9am to 10am Afternoon Tea Every Friday, 3pm to 4pm No booking needed – just pop in.
Dementia-friendly Movie Morning First Tuesday of every month, 10am
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Booking required, just give us a call.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Metabolic minute: meal planning
What is metabolic health?
Metabolic health is about how well your body stores, releases and uses fuel to keep you functioning at your best. Our everyday habits, including what we eat, how much we move and how well we sleep, can all influence our metabolic health.
How can meal planning help?
Planning meals ahead can make it easier to choose nourishing foods, reduce food waste and avoid relying on convenience foods when you are hungry or short on time. The 28 Day Metabolic Health Plan encourages a focus on real, minimally processed foods that support metabolic health. Protein is an important part of this, helping maintain muscle, support the body’s repair processes and keep you feeling fuller
FOOD & DRINK
ARTISANS & MAKERS
UNIQUE GIFTS
for longer. Include protein-rich foods such as eggs, fish, chicken, lean meat, tofu or Greek yoghurt in your meals, alongside plenty of vegetables and healthy fats from nuts, seeds and olive oil. Simple meals can make a big difference. Think omelettes or Greek yoghurt for breakfast, chicken salad for lunch or salmon with roasted vegetables for dinner. You do not need expensive ingredients or complicated recipes to eat well.
Start small
Improving metabolic health does not mean changing everything overnight. Small, consistent steps can help build habits that last. Your challenge this week: Spend 10 minutes planning three meals, create your shopping list and try one new recipe. A little preparation today can make healthier choices easier tomorrow. You
POP-UP PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO
could cook extra portions for the following day, prepare vegetables in advance or keep ingredients ready for a quick meal when life gets hectic. Meal planning is not about perfection or following a rigid diet. It is about creating a routine that makes healthier choices easier and more sustainable.
Find ideas on Health Shelf
For practical inspiration, visit www. healthshelf.org. Created by GP Dr Campbell Murdoch, Health Shelf offers free resources to help people understand and improve their metabolic health, including the 28-Day Metabolic Health Plan, recipes and a metabolic health tracker. The website can also help take the effort out of planning by allowing you to create a meal plan and generate a personalised shopping list based on your chosen meals. This can help you organise your week, know what ingredients you need and make shopping simpler. If you have diabetes and take medication, or have other health conditions, speak to your healthcare team before making significant dietary changes.
Welcomers wanted COULD you spare an hour each fortnight to welcome visitors to Sherborne Abbey? One of the finest buildings in Dorset, the Abbey continues to flourish as a place of worship with regular services and an outstanding choir. It attracts visitors from all over the world. For many years, volunteers have welcomed those visitors as they enter the building. The Abbey is open to visitors Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm. More Abbey welcomers are urgently needed. They are not guides and only need to have a very basic understanding of the history and layout of the building, knowing where to direct visitors for more detailed information. Most importantly, they need
to enjoy meeting people and making them feel welcome in the Abbey. There is no requirement for welcomers to be worshippers at the Abbey, but they should have an appreciation of (and affection for) this amazing historic building. Those interested in becoming welcomers are interviewed, and if approved for the role are given training. Once ready, they are allocated a single hour of duty in each fortnight. Normally there are Abbey vergers also on duty – they deal with the administration of the building – who can offer support if required. If you can spare an hour each fortnight to act as an Abbey welcomer please contact Suzanne Short at suzanne. short@sherborneabbey.com.
Photo by Bakd&Raw by Karolin Baitinger on Unsplash
by Megan Perrin, health coach WHEN life gets busy, it is easy to reach for whatever is quickest or easiest. But spending just 10 minutes planning your meals can make healthy eating simpler, save money and support your metabolic health.
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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“A Persian carpet is not just a floor covering, it’s a unique work of art” ADVERTISING FEATURE
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teeped in three generations of history, Bakhtiyar of Stockbridge and London has long been a respected leader in the Persian and Oriental hand-woven carpet trade. Headed by internationally renowned carpet expert Masoud MazaheriAsadi. Spend time with Bakhtiyar’s specialists and you will quickly discover their passion and love for the craftsmanship of the carpets they source. Masoud is often called upon by auction houses, insurance firms and institutions to identify and value carpets and invited to share his expertise with media outlets such as the BBC. We would be remiss to say that is all they do, carrying out general repairs for clients, whilst also working with many historic organisations to clean and restore carpets, bringing them back to life, in some cases removing 200 year old stains. Bakhtiyar believe that no rug is ever a lost ruin, beyond repair. As Persian Poet Rumi once said “where there is ruin, there is hope for treasure”. Their team of highly skilled cleaners and restorers carry out repairs using the traditional knotting methods to fully restore rugs to their former glory, taking wool dated from the same period as the rug, to perfectly match the rest of the piece.
Friday 6th to Sunday 8th of Novmeber 2026 Open 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. daily Join Masoud Mazaheri-Asadi, third generation and internationally renowned Persian and Oriental carpet specialist, together with his son Koroush and immerse all your senses in the delights of hand woven carpets, runners & flat weave kelims at our three day selling exhibition. Home viewings can be arranged during and after the exhibiton. Taste the delicious home-cooked food of Persia over a leisurely lunch, with all proceeds raised in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society. MINTERN BARN, LUCCOMBE FARM, MILTON ABBAS, BLANDFORD FORUM DORSET, DT11 0BE Directions: Approach the exhibition at Luccombe Farm from Winterborne Whitechurch (A354), using the Milton Abbas Road. (AA signposted) Ample parking is available and the Mintern Barn is wheelchair accessible. Tel: 01264 811 033 I Mobile: 07740 333 333 I Email: info@bakhtiyar.com
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Tickets on sale now for immersive An ideal gift for all Dorset lovers! Tickets on sale now for immersive ADVERTISING FEATURE new Christmas Light Trail for 2026 DOWNSTREAM DORSET, River Tales and Local History is a colourful new Christmas LightADVERTISING Trail forFEATURE 2026 journey of exploration and discovery along the many rivers and streams
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tep into a world of festive wonder as Christmas at Stourhead 2026 returns ADVERTISING FEATURE with a brand-new illuminated trail,as filled with sparkling surprises, tep into a world of festive wonder Christmas at Stourhead 2026 returns atmospheric lights andilluminated larger-than-life moments. Visitors can discover with a brand-new trail,festive filled with sparkling surprises, and enjoy the trail thelarger-than-life National Trust’sfestive Stourhead fromVisitors 27 November 2026 atmospheric lightsatand moments. can discover until January 2027,atwith tickets onTrust’s sale now. and 3enjoy the trail the National Stourhead from 27 November 2026 until 3 January 2027, with tickets– on sale now. TICKETS SELLING FAST
BOOK EARLY TO AVOID TICKETS SELLING FASTDISAPPOINTMENT. – BOOK TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. As twilightEARLY falls, the historic parkland will become a festive landscape of
shimmering soundscapes and become larger than life installations, As twilightlight, falls, seasonal the historic parkland will a festive landscape ofguiding guests throughlight, a memorable evening. shimmering seasonal soundscapes and larger than life installations, guiding guests through a memorable evening. Installations on the trail this year for visitors to enjoy include the timeless beauty ofInstallations the classic Christmas thevisitors mesmerising Fire Garden, sparklingbeauty Sea on the trailCathedral, this year for to enjoy include theatimeless ofofLight, and the futuristicCathedral, garden of the lasers and light that festive magic to the classic Christmas mesmerising Firebrings Garden, a sparkling Sea life a spectacle colour, garden storytelling and celebration. of in Light, and theof futuristic of lasers and light that brings festive magic to life in a Information spectacle of colour, storytelling and celebration. Booking Booking • What:Information Christmas at Stourhead What:27 Christmas at Stourhead • • When: November 2026 until 3 January 2027 • When: 27 November 2026 until January 2027 • Admission: Limited capacity with3timed entry, early booking advised. • Admission: Limited capacity with timed entry, early booking advised. • Adult tickets: off peak £18.00, peak £26.50 • Adult tickets: off peak £18.00, peak £26.50 • Child tickets: off peak £13.00, peak £19.50 Child tickets:Christmas off peak £13.00, peakLimited £19.50 capacity with timed entry. Your• very merriest starts here. Your very merriest Christmas starts here. Limited capacity with timed entry. Christmas at Stourhead is brought to you by Sony Music Limited in partnership with the National Trust. The trail is to created Culture Creative. Christmas at Stourhead is brought you bybySony Music Limited in partnership with National Trust. The trail and is created by Culture For fullthe pricing, ticket information bookings visit: Creative. For full pricing, ticket information and bookings visit: www.christmasatstourhead.co.uk www.christmasatstourhead.co.uk Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wiltshire/stourhead Website:Stourhead, https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wiltshire/stourhead Address: Wiltshire, BA12 6QD Address: Stourhead, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD
flowing through the beautiful county of Dorset.
Mary van Coller and her husband, Ryan have visited towns and villages along each river, verifying facts, listening to people’s stories and taking many colour photographs. Downstream Dorset reveals the meaning of place names and relates fascinating tales about people and events both past and present. Downstream Dorset can accompany you when exploring Dorset, or you can sit and enjoy reading the many anecdotes with a cup of coffee. (20% of proceeds donated to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance).
The Perfect Gift for all Lovers of Dorset Over 250 pages full of snippets, facts, place names and colour photographs. Available for £22.95 +p&p online at www.downstreamdorset.co.uk www.spiral-books.com Supporting the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Service Mary is currently taking bookings for talks & presentations, more information on her website
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Community parties in the streets as carnival lights up town CASTLE Cary was in party mood when it welcomed its biggest carnival procession in recent years. The narrow streets lit up as floats, walkers, majorettes and bands streamed through the town, receiving a great welcome from the crowd. “Carnival brings our community together like nothing else,” said Carnival Society chair Malcolm Wake. “Entrants always say that Cary Carnival is special because the crowd is friendly. We proved that with cheers and dancing in the streets.” Malcolm added: “The biggest cheers of the night went to the local entries, especially the Scouts and local schools. The number of children and the creativity of the entries was great to see.” Countess Gytha Primary School, with a milky way of mini Cosmonauts, won the Inter Schools Cup, while Castle Cary’s own Higlets, with their magical entry Wu Long, won the highly contested Group Juvenile with Props category. Castle Cary’s own carnival club, Comedians, did the town proud with high-energy dancing, and real ‘bucking broncos’ seeming to ride down the high street. “There were so many incredibly creative walking entries – I’m glad I wasn’t judging,” said society general secretary Caroline Sharley. Best Masqueraders (walkers) Overall went to Dark Flight from Krodie Carnival Club, with Spectators’ Choice, and Best
Overall Runner-up float, going to jungle adventure Return of the Tribe, from epic Hot Rock Carnival Club. The wax-work tableau float from Magnum CC, The Ivory Realm, drew breaths of amazement from the crowd. Best Overall Cart winners were Insane Experiments, with the dance-inducing soundtrack ‘Let’s Do the Timewarp Again’ Kipling. The sparkling Ilchester Gems highstepped into first place in the majorettes’ competition. Carnival treasurer Doug Crosse said: “Over 70% of the collection goes to local charitable causes, so we’re delighted to say that from both carnivals [the main procession and the earlier children’s carnival] we raised over £1,700. “A very big thank you to our evergenerous community.” The Carnival Society would like to thank sponsors, marshals, collectors and the hundreds of other people who help make the big night out happen. Sponsorship from local businesses and families was up more than 30% this year. For full carnival results, visit www.ccacs.org.uk.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Winning ticket ONE-TIME Carnival Princess Pauline Holland won the £1,000 top prize in Mere Carnival’s golden ticket mega draw. Pauline, who was a princess at the age of six, received her prize from carnival committee vice-chair David Hytch. The second prize of £500 went to Simon James of The Walnut Tree Inn, but the third and fourth prize-winners have yet to contact carnival organisers. Holders of tickets numbered 1396 and 2447 should phone Ros Kellow on 07976 647357. Carnival organisers Ros, David and Jill Newton were delighted with the success of Mere Carnival. They hope to arrange fundraising events over the coming year to help with the cost of organising next year’s carnival, which will amount to more than £6,000. To donate, visit www.
10% OFF crowdfunder.co.uk and search ‘Support Mere Carnival’. The first event is Mere lights switch-on with Santa in The Square, and a Christmas market on Friday, December 4, from 5pm-8pm. Santa will be in residence in the clock tower and will welcome visitors free of charge. For information on stall bookings, contact Ros Kellow at ros.kellow@sky.com.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Bag a bargain at fair BARGAIN hunters, vintage lovers and supporters of local causes are counting down to the return of the much-loved Winter Fair at Wincanton Racecourse. The event has become affectionately known as ‘Somerset's most exclusive charity jumble sale,’ attracting hundreds of shoppers, with queues forming long before doors open. All proceeds help The Balsam Centre community hub in Wincanton, with last year’s event raising a record-breaking £31,000. "It really is one of the happiest days of the year," said Pilla Dingle, co-chair of the Winter Fair organising committee. "The atmosphere is incredible, the bargains are amazing and there is something very special about knowing every item purchased is helping local people. “Our volunteers put their hearts into making the fair happen, and we're proud that every penny raised goes directly to supporting The Balsam Centre."
Stalls feature jewellery, designer fashion, handbags, artwork, toys, books, kitchenware and homewares, alongside homemade treats, seasonal gifts and festive planters. Emma Brown, chief executive of The Balsam Centre, said: "The Winter Fair is so much more than a fundraiser. It is a celebration of community spirit, generosity and what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause. “We are continually inspired by the commitment and creativity of the volunteer team and deeply grateful to everyone who donates, shops and supports the event. “The money raised helps us continue providing essential services and opportunities for local people who need them most." The Winter Fair is on Saturday, November 14, from 10am-3pm and entry is £1. A free shuttle bus service will operate throughout the day for fair-goers from Wincanton Memorial Hall.
Military might NAPOLEON – Soldier and Lover is the title of a talk being given by James Porter to members of Probus Blandford at the Langton Arms, Tarrant Monckton. James is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel with a long and impressive military career and a passion for military history. The talk will look at Napoleon’s military and political career – and his love life, including his relationship with Josephine from the start through to their divorce, and the string of other women in his life. The talks is on Wednesday, November 25, with arrival at the Langton Arms from 11am for the start of the meeting at 11.30am. Non-member guests are welcome for a meeting fee of £10 plus an optional lunch at £27. Places must be reserved by Wednesday, November 18, as lunches have to be prebooked. For more information, email john. boother@yahoo.co.uk.
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A T H R E E S TO N E B U R M E S E RU BY AND DIAMOND RING SOLD IN SEPTEMBER 2026 HAMMER PRICE £7,500
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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LARMER TREE CHRISTMAS MARKET FRIDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 6-9PM & SATURDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 11AM-4PM CHRISTMAS STALLS & TREATS FESTIVE LIVE MUSIC INDOOR CAFE LATE NIGHT SHOPPING (FRI) WINTERY WALKS IN OUR STUNNING GARDEN (SAT) INFORMATION AND TICKETS: WWW.LARMERTREE.CO.UK/CHRISTMAS-MARKET
LARMER TREE GARDENS, TOLLARD ROYAL, WILTSHIRE, SP5 5PY
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taff, residents and relatives at a Gillingham care home walked 30 miles to raise nearly £500 for two charities supporting people living with dementia.
A Care South home for residential and dementia care
s
rtual s ste , and d
brought together people of all ages from across the village – whether making poppies, helping with the assembly and the installation or supporting the Poppython events held throughout the year. “The support from the community has truly been overwhelming.”
Living Well with Dementia Dementia may change how someone experiences the world, but it doesn’t diminish their value or opportunity to have and enjoy meaningful relationships. With the right care, understanding and support, people living with dementia can continue to live well - maintaining purpose, identity and connection. Contact us today to see how we can help create a new home for you or a loved one at Fern Brook Lodge:
01747834020 | care-south.co.uk Fern Brook Lane | Gillingham | SP8 4QD Proud of Care a not-for-profit Proud toto bebe partpart of Care South,South, a not-for-profit charity and leadcharity and provider residential, ing provider ofleading residential, dementiaof and nursing care,dementia as well as care at home services across theassouth and nursing care, as well careofatEngland. homeRegistered services Charity No. 1014697. * Correct at time of print. across the south of England. Registered Charity No. 1014697. *Correct at time of print
Rated
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
The team at Fern Brook Lodge, which provides residential, respite and dementia care, raised £492 for local cause, Dementia Friendly Gillingham, and national charity, Alzheimer’s Society, from their ‘Memory Walk’.
2 for gham miles
-anity.
VILLAGERS in Marnhull and individuals from further afield have produced more than 4,000 knitted, crocheted and felt poppies for a poppy cascade at the village’s war memorial. The village’s branch of the Royal British Legion asked members of Marnhull Craft Club to create the tribute to victims of wars and other conflicts at the start of the year. And members of both groups got to work supported by friends and family, care home residents and by children at Marnhull Village Show. Some dedicated poppies to family members who had died in conflict, and others made purple poppies to the toll of conflict on animals. A spokesperson for the project said: “The making of the cascade has been a real community effort which has
Gillingham care home team walks 30 miles for dementia charities
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k ia care
Poppy cascade
Colleagues from departments across Fern Brook Lodge raised £242 for the home, which is run by not-for-profit Dementia Friendly Gillingham charity Care South, took turns to walk by walking 30 miles laps of the garden with any residents who wanted to take part. Every member of staff who took on the Memory Walk has completed Care South’s in-house training programme to become a Dementia Champion. This equips them to support colleagues in providing person-centred care that meets each resident’s individual needs. Dementia Friendly Gillingham is a volunteer-led organisation which runs community activities and initiatives. The volunteers also hosts a monthly ‘Sing-asong of Praise’ session at Fern Brook Lodge for residents and the local community.
November 2023
Care South is a leading provider of high-quality residential care homes across Dorset, north Devon and Somerset, and care at offices covering Dorset and Somerset. Dementia care is a key focus across Care South’s homes. Staff undertake a Virtual Dementia Tour training session to develop their understanding of the challenges faced by people living with dementia. Homes also run initiatives such as Namaste care, which supports people with advanced dementia through sensory activities, and Dining for Dementia, which helps create positive experiences around eating and drinking.
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Wills and LPAs: Are You Comparing the True Cost?
Jumping for joy
INFLATABLE fun sessions held at Pimperne village hall helped coin in the cash for three good causes. The event raised £447 for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, £158 for Pimperne Baby & Toddler Group and £143 from a tombola for Ethan’s charity outreach project to Borneo. Happy Bouncers, of Sturminster Newton, gave its time and equipment free of charge. Fundraiser Jackie Vacher was ably helped by Tamsin Holloway, Becki Thomas and Tony Jacobs. Zuzana and Ethan Moody and Mike Vacher ran a tombola.
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By Chris Tennant - Legacy Planning Consultant, Oakwood Wills When planning for the future, it is tempting to compare estate-planning services by their headline prices. But the important question is simple: what is actually included? A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows people you choose to help make decisions about your finances or health and welfare if needed. For a couple arranging both types each, that means four LPAs. The government registration fee is currently £92 per document, making £368 in total. However, fees can change, so it is important to check the current fee and whether it is included in the quoted price. At Oakwood Wills, our price for all four LPAs is £1,100, including VAT and the current £368 of registration fees. You know the full cost from the outset, subject to any change in the government registration fee. Wills are equally important. They allow you to decide who should inherit your estate and who should administer it. Depending on your circumstances, a Will incorporating a life-interest property trust can also help protect your share of the family home for your chosen beneficiaries after death.
Oakwood Wills offers two Wills incorporating life-interest trusts for £474, including VAT. Together with four LPAs, the combined price is £1,574, including VAT and the current LPA registration fees. It is also worth understanding that a Will Trust is different from a Living Trust established during your lifetime. Each serves different purposes, and neither is right for everyone. We offer a free, no-obligation home visit across Dorset, taking time to explain your options in plain English and answer all your questions. Good estate planning should be about clear advice, suitable protection and transparent pricing—not confusing headline offers. Your Local Willwriter...
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Wills • Living Trusts • Lasting Powers of Attorney ADVERTISING FEATURE
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
News Wonderful dining experience, amongst beautiful Wonderful dining experience, amongst beautiful FEATURE North Dorset Vineyard ADVERTISING North Dorset Vineyard ADVERTISING FEATURE
BB
reezy Ridge Vineyard, situated just south of reezy Ridge Vineyard, situated just south of Shaftesbury is now open all year round. Come Shaftesbury is now homegrown open all yearsparkling round. Come and sample their delicious and and sample their food delicious homegrown sparkling wines fantastic offerings. Open Friday – wines and fantastic food offerings. Open Friday Sunday, local Chef Michael Bright has joined the – Sunday, localwith Chef Michael Bright has joined the team, bringing him vast culinary experience, team, wonderful bringing with him vast culinary experience, creating seasonal dishes. The new seasonal wonderful seasonal The new seasonal setcreating lunch menu is served Fridaydishes. and Saturday lunch set lunch menucourses is served Friday and Saturday times, with main priced at £15, 2-courseslunch times, with main£25. courses priced at £15, £20, and 3-courses Friday evening the2-courses Around and £25. Friday the Around the£20, world A 3-courses La Carte Menu offers evening a delicious the world A La Carte Menu offers deliciouspriced at £22, 2-courses £28 and selection of themed dishes, with maina courses selection themed dishes,can withbemain courses at for £22,more 2-courses 3-courses forof£33. All menus found on thepriced website details.£28 and 3-courses for £33. All menus can be found on the website for more details. With Christmas fast approaching, the team at Breezy Ridge are ready to take approaching, the teamget at Breezy are ready to take yourWith partyChristmas bookings fast for groups or individuals, in touchRidge for more information. your forseveral groupslocal or individuals, touch information. You willparty find bookings the team at markets in get the in area overfor themore festive period, willdon’t find manage the teamtoatbump several local markets in the can areabe over the festive period, butYou if you into them, their wines purchased online. but selection if you don’t manage towines bumpare into their wines can be purchased online. Their of sparkling thethem, perfect tipple to celebrate with family selection of festive sparkling winesBreezy are theRidge perfect tipple to gift celebrate withmake family andTheir friends over the season. wines and vouchers and friends over the festive season. Breezy Ridge wines and gift vouchers makea the perfect, locally sourced presents. New wine releases in November will feature the perfect, locally sourced presents. New in November will feature a limited-edition Rosé Cuvée 2020 vintage, andwine Col releases Fondo 2022. limited-edition Rosé Cuvée vintage, and Col Take a guided walk around the2020 vineyard, followed by Fondo a wine2022. tasting flight, Take a guided around the vineyard, byBreezy a wineRidge tastingexperience. flight, Signature Grazingwalk Board or Cheese Tasting followed for the full Grazing Board Tasting for the full Breezy Ridge experience. TheSignature perfect experiential day or outCheese for small or large groups. The perfect experiential day out for small or large groups. Did you know that Breezy Ridge is the perfect venue for private hire and events? Did you that Breezycorporate Ridge is events the perfect venue for private and events? Whether that know be celebrations, or celebrations of life, hire the open Whether thatthe bevenue celebrations, corporate events or celebrations of life, open plan nature of and gorgeous outside space wrapped around thethe vineyard planitself nature of the venue and gorgeous outside space wrapped aroundtheir the vineyard lends perfectly for sociable group gatherings. Having just hosted first lends itself perfectly sociable group gatherings. Having just hosted their first incredible wedding this for summer, wedding packages will be offered from 2027 incredible wedding summer, packages willFor be offered from 2027 onwards to enjoy your this special day atwedding our beautiful setting. enquiries, please onwards to enjoy your special day at our beautiful setting. For enquiries, e-mail hello@breezyridgevineyard.com or call the team on 01747 681231. please e-mail hello@breezyridgevineyard.com or call the team on 01747 681231.
blackmorevale.net
Rotary sends out boxes of gifts MEMBERS of Shaftesbury Rotary Club collected scores of gift-filled shoeboxes from local schools, families and community supporters for this year’s Wessex Rotary Annual Shoebox Campaign. The boxes will be sent to children in Moldova, Montenegro, Romania and Ukraine, transported by Rotary volunteers. Some 236 boxes were collected from Abbey and Shaftesbury primary schools in Shaftesbury, Gillingham School, Gillingham and Wyke primary schools in Gillingham, St George’s at Bourton, and Wincanton Primary. The Blackmore Vale Partnership and Mrs Bales and Mrs Murphy in Gillingham also filled boxes. Shaftesbury Rotary checked
and packed the boxes (pictured above), ready for delivery to the distribution centre, before being transported to eastern Europe in time for Christmas. A Rotary spokesperson said: “We would like to thank all the families who donated to the Wessex Rotary Annual Shoebox Campaign, together with Bargains of Shaftesbury for supplying items to add to the boxes where needed.” Find out more at www. shaftesburyrotaryclub.org.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
News
blackmorevale.net
Christmas Fair at Bryanston School The Vale in verse Christmas Fair at Bryanston School ADVERTISING FEATURE
ADVERTISING FEATURE POET Stephen Boyce’s
W
essex Events would like latest collection focuses to invite toand our third on the landscape Christmas in the beautiful nature of theFair Blackmore 19th century splendour of Vale. Bryanston School on the Marnhull Solitudes, 21st and 22nd November.
inspired by Stephen’s With bike over rides 90 stands, weekly and selling food, around drink, crafts and homeware walks the area, gifts, this is the perfect place to features lyric poetry startayour Christmas with direct referenceshopping. to place. We will also be running the As popular Stephenwooden himselfreindeer very puts it: “It’s about close making workshops again. observation. Often very Local musicians will be playing localised details will the and singing throughout spark a reflection –a weekend. tree, a churchyard gate, We alsobird have– our Street Food a passing small things Area, where you can enjoy mid which remind us of our deep morning snacks and lunches, connection to the world on our including Bratwurst, Greek, doorstep.” Dorset Lamb burgers and Crepes. A prize-winning poet, All washed down with coffee, Stephen moved to Marnhull in tea, soft drinks or gluwein. 2014 after 30 years in There is also lots he forcochildren to Winchester, where enjoy. Our children’s area will founded the highly successful include a Frozen themed room, Winchester Poetry Festival. where kids can meet, and have
Marnhull Solitudes is
their pictures Elsa his taken fourthwith collection and Anya,and whowas willlaunched be joinedin by Superheroes. They can Shaftesbury in also enjoy our September craft room where they with the can makesupport Christmas decorations, of Folde or have their face painted. In bookshop. association with our sponsorship Shaftesbury partner, Meyers Estates, our residents Sue Clifford children’s areas will be raising and Angela King, who money for this years charity.
were in the audience
As well as on site forparking the launch and we are alsowhose running a Shuttle compendium bus from Marsham of local car park, Blandford distinctiveness Town Centre starting at 10.00amEngland and running in all day.
The cost ofParticular entry is justhas £4 for Adults, withinfluenced children under 16 Stephen’s free, work, say: “So embedded is the
localness it’sstay easylate to and So comethat early, appreciate his observations enjoy a wonderful Christmasand/ or be luredday into shopping in looking the mostafresh.” Marnhull Solitudes beautiful of settings. is available from Folde bookshop, We would like to thank our Shaftesbury Teasel and sponsors Theand Blackmore Vale Skylark in Dorchester or direct Media Group and Meyers Estate from the author www. of this Agents, for theiratsupport stephenboycepoetry.com. event.
W
essex Events would like to invite to our third Christmas Fair in the beautiful 19th century splendour of Bryanston School on the 21st and 22nd November.
With over 90 stands, selling food, drink, crafts and homeware gifts, this is the perfect place to start your Christmas shopping. We will also be running the very popular wooden reindeer making workshops again. Local musicians will be playing and singing throughout the weekend. We also have our Street Food Area, where you can enjoy mid morning snacks and lunches, including Bratwurst, Greek, Dorset Lamb burgers and Crepes. All washed down with coffee, tea, soft drinks or gluwein. There is also lots for children to enjoy. Our children’s area will include a Frozen themed room, where kids can meet, and have
their pictures taken with Elsa and Anya, who will be joined by Superheroes. They can also enjoy our craft room where they can make Christmas decorations, or have their face painted. In association with our sponsorship partner, Meyers Estates, our children’s areas will be raising money for this years charity. As well as parking on site we are also running a Shuttle bus from Marsham car park, Blandford Town Centre starting at 10.00am and running all day. The cost of entry is just £4 for Adults, with children under 16 free, So come early, stay late and enjoy a wonderful Christmas shopping day in the most beautiful of settings. We would like to thank our sponsors The Blackmore Vale Media Group and Meyers Estate Agents, for their support of this event.
at Bryanston Schoo
21st & 22nd N
at Bryanston School, Blandford
21st & 22nd NOVEMBER
10am - 4p
10am - 4pm
Car bus site ttle On ee Shu ford Fr nd k & Bla ion Par from ormat e Inf Centr
Art Crafts Food & Drink Street Food Kids Activities The perfect place to start your Christmas shopping!
Car bus site ttle On ee Shu ford Fr nd k & Bla ion Par from ormat e Inf Centr
Art Crafts Food Street Food Kids The perfect place to Christmas shop
Adult £4.00 Under 16’s free
www.thewessexeventcompany.co.uk
www.thewessexeven
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
News
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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News
blackmorevale.net
Celebrating connection, purpose and the power of the outdoors by Siobhan, manager of Countrymen UK
INTERNATIONAL Men’s Day, on November 19, is a time to recognise the value men bring to their families and communities, while shining a light on the challenges many face as they age, manage health changes or experience isolation. For men who spent their lives working outdoors, the transition into older age can be especially difficult, often leading to a loss of routine and identity. Countrymen UK, a charity based on a farm near Sherborne, bridges this gap through time outdoors, shared purpose and genuine companionship. Founded on the belief that nature restores confidence and wellbeing, Countrymen UK offers sessions where older men – many with backgrounds in
farming, horticulture or handson trades – can gather in a welcoming environment. Participants can engage in familiar activities at their own pace: tending animals, growing vegetables, maintaining tools, walking the land, or simply sharing a cup of tea with peers. At its heart, Countrymen UK is about fostering a sense of belonging. Many participants have experienced loneliness, bereavement or health conditions. Others are carers who need time for themselves. At Countrymen UK, they find a space where they are valued for their strengths rather than defined by their limitations. The impact is clear: improved well-being, renewed confidence, stronger social connections and a restored sense of purpose.
As we mark International Men’s Day, the team at Countrymen UK is proud to provide a space where men can reconnect with the land, each other and themselves. We will be holding a cream tea at our base on Rylands Farm (Boyshill Drove, Holnest, Sherborne DT9 5PS) on November 19 and joined by Abbeyview residential home.
Welcome to a life made easier in Poundbury. Discover a festive afternoon at Bowes Lyon Court. Celebrate the magic of Christmas at Bowes Lyon Court. Join us for a festive get-together with Christmas cheer, festive treats and a chance to connect with our wonderful community. Enter our charity hamper raffle in support of the McCarthy & Stone Foundation, with the winner announced during the event. Booking is by appointment only and we look forward to welcoming you.
Join us at our Christmas Market event Enjoy festive stalls, seasonal treats and our charity hamper raffle, supporting the McCarthy & Stone Foundation. Winner announced during the event.
Wednesday 18th November, from 1.30pm - 3.30pm
Bowes Lyon Court Peverell Avenue, Dorchester, Poundbury, Dorset, DT1 3DA
Scan or call to book your place
0345 556 4105
mccarthyandstoneresales.co.uk
Local amenities nearby On-site chef-run restaurant Shared communal spaces to enjoy Friendly Estate Manager Guest suite for family and friends^ Personal care and support available^ ^Subject to availability. Additional charges apply.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
News
blackmorevale.net
Makeover for Dorset stroke unit A £10,000 donation from the former Dorchester Social Stroke Club to Dorset County Hospital Charity has helped transform the Stroke Unit at Dorset County Hospital (DCH). The donation has funded new artwork featuring iconic Dorset landscapes and landmarks, to help bring the local area into the unit to create a familiar and welcoming environment which could help patients’ recovery. The Arts in Hospital team worked with local artists including Anna Crennell, who created the mural in the day room, with stroke patients in mind. The remaining funds have supported the unit’s gardening group, providing equipment and funding activities for patients. Members of the former Dorchester Social Stroke Club visited the Stroke Ward to see the improvements their donation had made possible. Jackie Sherfield, who founded the club, said: “This project means a great deal to our members, many of whom have personal experience of strokes or caring for someone who has had a stroke.
“They understood the Members of the Dorchester Social Stroke Club, importance of creating a head of DCH Charity, Simon Pearson, with Rhiannon Swatton from Estates at DCH and welcoming space where patients Mandy Russell from the Stroke Unit at DCH could spend time away from their beds and worked incredibly hard to raise the funds to make this possible. “We are delighted with the finished project and incredibly proud of what our members have achieved. It is wonderful to see their efforts making a real difference to patients, and we are very grateful to have been invited to see the results. “Although the club has now closed, it is connected to them. This familiarity can be particularly special to know that its legacy valuable during rehabilitation.” will live on through this space, continuing Dorset County Hospital Charity raises to benefit patients for years to come.” funds above and beyond the NHS budget Jennifer Hodge, Stroke Unit matron at and works with its supporters to raise vital DCH, said: “The artwork and furnishings funds to ensure DCH is equipped to deliver on the Stroke Unit create a comfortable, the highest standards of care and wellbeing familiar and welcoming environment which for patients, their loved ones and its staff. is beneficial to cognitive rehabilitation and Find out more about DCH Charity and recovery for our patients. how you can fundraise for its Emergency “The images of major Dorset landmarks and Critical Care Appeal or a ward or provide a talking point for patients who department close to your heart at www. recognise these places and have memories dchcharity.org.uk.
Three-Year ALPS Grade 1 | Top 1% Nationally for student progress
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Gillingham School
Sixth Form Open Evening 6:00-8:00pm Thursday 19th November 2026 Join us and experience a Sixth Form that combines academic ambition with outstanding opportunities and individual support. Meet our specialist teachers. Discover our range of courses. Explore opportunities beyond the classroom. Whether your next step is university, an apprenticeship or employment, we’ll help you develop the knowledge, confidence and skills to succeed.
All Sixth Form Enquires: sixthformenquiries@gillingham-dorset.co.uk
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Free start-up support ASPIRING entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners across Dorset are being encouraged to take advantage of a new programme of free business support. Delivered by business advisory firm Evolve in partnership with Dorset Council, the programme is designed to help local people explore business ideas, gain confidence, develop practical skills and meet others on a similar journey. The programme includes two types of events: Start Up Business Breakfasts and The Start Line workshops. The Start Up Business Breakfasts are informal networking events bringing together aspiring entrepreneurs, early-stage business owners and experienced business advisors. Attendees will hear first-hand experiences from local business owners, sharing their successes and the lessons they learned along the way. The Start Line offers a more hands-on practical workshop approach, designed to help participants explore and test their ideas, understand the foundations of starting a business and begin shaping their next steps. Covering areas such as identifying
customers, marketing, financial planning and the practical considerations of setting up a business, the sessions also provide an opportunity for participants to discuss their individual ideas and challenges with an experienced business advisor. The first events will take place in November, with Start Up Business Breakfasts in Shaftesbury and Bridport on Wednesday. November 11, followed by Dorchester on Tuesday, November 24. The first Start Line workshop will take place in Shaftesbury on Friday, November 27. Further events will be held in towns across the Dorset Council area through to March 2027, providing opportunities for local residents and business owners to access support closer to home. All events are free to attend, but places are limited and registration is required. Anyone living in the Dorset Council area who is considering starting a business or is in the early stages of running one is encouraged to explore the programme and find an event near them. To find out more and to register, visit www.evolveadvisory.co.uk/events.
Castle Lodge
A Country Court Care Home
Our First Summer in Mere We have enjoyed a busy first summer at Castle Lodge Care Home, with lots of opportunities to welcome local people into our home and support the wider Mere community. We hosted a bingo fundraiser for Mere Carnival, continued our monthly coffee mornings and launched a new Memory Support Group for people living with memory loss, their families & carers. Residents, families and local dog owners also joined us for Woof Fest, our community dog show.
Save the Date!
We’d also love to welcome you to our Summer Fayre on Saturday 26th September, 11am–2pm, for a fun-filled day at Castle Lodge.
Enquire today 01985 440 321
chris.guest@countrycourtcare.com
www.countrycourtcare.com
blackmorevale.net
Harvest time
PUPILS and families at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Primary School in Wincanton have celebrated Harvest by donating food to support people in their local community. Following the school’s Harvest Mass, perishable donations were delivered to the Community Fridge at the town hall, while tins, jars and packets of food will be donated to the foodbank in Wincanton in partnership with parishioners from St Luke and St Teresa.
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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News
blackmorevale.net
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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BLACK FRIDAY SALE
10 facts about Black Friday BLACK Friday has become one of the biggest shopping days of the year in the UK as well as in the USA. In 2026 it falls on Friday, November 27. Here are 10 facts about Black Friday. 1 Thanksgiving and Black Friday THANKSGIVING sees families from across the US
feast on traditional food such as turkey and pumpkin pie, while giving thanks for everything good in their lives – and Black Friday has long been synonymous with the occasion. 2 It’s an annual event in run-up to Christmas BLACK Friday falls on the Friday after the fourth Thursday in November, so it is always between November 23-29. In the US, many people have the day off work. 3 The first ‘Black Friday’ was a financial crash THE name was first used for Friday, September 24, 1869, when two speculators, Jay Gould and Jim Fisk, tried to Continued on page 34
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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CORNER the gold market in New York and caused prices to collapse. 4 Police in Philadelphia gave the shopping day its name IN the 1950s and 1960s, Philadelphia police called the day after Thanksgiving ‘Black Friday’ because of the huge crowds and traffic jams as shoppers and football fans poured into the city. 5 The ‘in the black’ story came later A POPULAR explanation says shops go from making a loss – ‘in the red’ – to a profit – ‘in the black’ – on this day. The story appeared in the 1980s, long after the name was already in use. 6 It reached the UK in the 2010s AMAZON began promoting Black Friday deals in the UK in 2010, and Asda, then owned by the US chain Walmart, followed in 2013. Within a few years it was one of the busiest shopping
days of the British year. 7 Early Black Fridays in Britain were chaotic IN 2014, police were called to supermarkets across the UK as shoppers scrambled for cut-price televisions. 8 It has grown into Black November MANY retailers now run Black Friday offers for a week or even the whole of November, rather than a single day. 9 Cyber Monday follows it THE term Cyber Monday was coined in 2005 by the US National Retail Federation for the Monday after Thanksgiving, when people returned to work and shopped online. 10 Small Business Saturday comes in between SMALL Business Saturday, encouraging people to shop at independent local businesses, began in the US in 2010 and has been held in the UK since 2013, usually on the first Saturday in December.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
History
blackmorevale.net
In the picture (from left) Operation Raleigh’s brigantine Zebu off the Black River, Honduras; the Black River mouth, Honduras. Sandbars offshore; John Blashford-Snell with an 18th century Bristol bottle he found at the Black River
The phantom shrimper THE Black River on Honduras’s mosquito coast is a fascinating place for archaeologists and historians. I found one intriguing little puzzle here when I visited the area in 1981. Mister Green, a charming old man who spoke 19th century English, was a fund of tales. “Do you know any ghost stories about this place?” I asked him as we sat in his old dugout on the lagoon. “Weell” he wheezed, then, cocking his wrinkled old head sideways, he said: “There’s mysterious lights here.” “What sort of light?” I probed. “Ghostly lights, mister, ghostly lights,” he went on. Mister Green took a long time to tell a tale, simply because he enjoyed it. “When there’s a storm you sees a light, jus’ like a lantern on de water off de bar,” he explained, pointing at the sand bank off the river mouth. “It kind of floats on the surface across de bar – but there’s no one there – it’s bad news for boats.” I wrote it down in my log and forgot all about it – for several months. Later, I visited the area again, this time on Operation Raleigh’s brigantine Zebu. Among the expatriates living at the old pirates’ haven of Port Royal on Roatan Island was an ex-US Navy veteran, Joe Garrison. Joe, round, smiling with a mass of fair curls above his sunburnt
by former British Army officer, explorer and author John Blashford-Snell. John founded Operation Raleigh and the Scientific Exploration Society face, was rather like a jolly cherub. But, one night as we sat sipping a beer, looking out to sea, he told me a tale of horror and mystery. Having retired from the Navy, Joe had decided to sail around the world in a brig he’d bought and done up. However, having reached Roatan, he reckoned he’d found paradise and settled for a while. One morning, he sailed with a friend to the mainland for supplies. However, as the day wore on, a strong ‘Norther’ blew up, driving them eastward along the coast. The storm strengthened, and by nightfall, Joe’s old sails had blown out and his engine was faltering as seawater entered the fuel. Knowing they were off a dangerous lee shore, the two men fought to keep the brig out to sea. When the engine stopped, they stripped and cleaned the filters, getting them back just in time to restart the old diesel and beat away from the coast. Throughout the night they battled, struggling to keep themselves upright as the boat
pitched and rolled in the mountainous waves. Joe felt they were winning and had just told Charlie, his faithful tabby cat, that they’d made it, when they saw the light. Still some miles astern, one single navigation light was bobbing in the storm. “Hell, a bloody shrimp boat coming up the coast – probably all boozed out of their minds and no watch,” thought Joe. Shrimp boats often carry only a single hurricane lantern slung amidships, and this was exactly what it looked like. Now they had two problems. If their engines stopped, seaward of the shrimper, they could drift back across her path. But if they didn’t keep beating out to sea, they’d be on the rocks. So, they decided to let the other boat pass. However, minutes later, it was still astern and they were drifting rapidly shoreward. Joe decided to chance it and restart the engine. The diesel was just about going when there was a shuddering thud. Joe went flying and tonnes of water cascaded over them and down the hatch. Killing the motor for good. “We’re in the breakers,” screamed his pal, as another jarring crash shook the brig, and Joe knew they were doomed. There was just time to grab Charlie, thrust him into a beer box and seize the compass
before the boat began to go over. Luckily, their dinghy slipped easily from its mounting, and they surfed through the roaring waves to ground on a sandy beach. Joe found Charlie, who scratched him savagely and scampered for the jungle. Back on the sandbar, they saw the brig break up in the moonlight. Joe watched, tears rolling down his salt-stained face – he’d lost everything and hadn’t even been able to afford insurance for his floating home. His luck wasn’t completely out because his wallet with some dollars and his passport washed up right beside him and, at dawn, some Indians used their dogs to help him find Charlie. Sitting beside him that warm evening, I listened attentively to this moving story. “Where had you ended up, Joe?” I asked. “Oh! We’d hit the bar at the mouth of the Rio Tinto – the Black River,” he replied. My heart leapt and I remembered Mister Green’s story. “Did you ever see that shrimp boat?” I enquired. “No, darn it – we never did, just the goddam light,” said Joe. Sailing off the coast, we kept strict watch for the mysterious light. n SIGNED copies of John Blashford-Snell’s recent book, From Utmost East to Utmost West, are priced £20, including UK postage. Contact jenny@ses-explore. org for more details.
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
blackmorevale.net
Time to reform SEND provision PARENTS from across Yeovil and South Somerset regularly contact me about Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), which covers children and young people who require additional support to access education. They tell me of lengthy waits for assessments, difficulties accessing specialist provision and the challenge of securing the support their children need to thrive. While every family’s circumstances are different, a common theme emerges – too many parents feel they are fighting a complex system when their focus should be on supporting their child. Last week, I proudly joined campaigners in Downing Street to present a petition, signed by almost 300,000 people, calling for a review of school attendance fines where children are unable to attend school because of unmet SEND needs. The campaign, supported by actor Anna Maxwell Martin, has
Lib Dem MP for Yeovil Adam Dance brought national attention to the experiences of families who believe they are being held accountable for shortcomings within the support system itself. The debate around attendance is an important one. Regular attendance is clearly vital for educational attainment, wellbeing and future opportunity. Schools, parents and government all have a shared responsibility to ensure
Ken Huggins on behalf of the Green Party in North Dorset those on low wages, the disabled, the unemployed and – increasingly – young people. The Green Party calls for investment in vital public services that will pay dividends over time, along with upgrading our housing stock, including improved insulation to make it warmer and cheaper to heat in winter, and cooler in summer. Remember the Insulate Britain
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children can engage fully with their education. However, we must also recognise that attendance challenges can sometimes be a symptom of wider issues. Where a child is experiencing significant anxiety, awaiting assessment or struggling with unmet additional needs, the priority should be understanding and addressing those underlying causes. This is a subject I care about deeply, not only as an MP but from personal experience. I have dyslexia and ADHD, and I remember that school was not always straightforward. There were aspects of education that I found challenging, and there were times when I struggled in ways that were not immediately visible. What made a real difference were the teachers who took the time to understand those challenges and provide the support that enabled me to progress with confidence. Today there is far greater
awareness and understanding of neurodiversity than when I was at school, and that is, undoubtedly, a positive development. More young people are being identified and supported, and conversations around conditions such as ADHD, autism and dyslexia are far more informed than they once were. Yet greater awareness must be matched by adequate capacity. As demand for assessments and specialist support grows, government must ensure that local authorities, schools and health services have the resources necessary to respond effectively. Reforming SEND provision was one of the commitments I made when elected, and it remains a priority. Families, schools and young people all deserve a system that is timely, fair and focused on delivering the support children need to thrive. That must be the goal of future reform.
protests, whose message the Government and media chose to ignore in favour of attacking the messenger? Cold winters cause thousands of excess deaths, as did this year’s extreme heatwaves. The money should come from a fair taxation system that includes taxing bank and energy company windfall profits, the gambling industry and extreme wealth. The 50 wealthiest families in the UK have more wealth than the poorest 50% of the UK population, which is 34 million people. Calls for taxing extreme wealth are often met with claims that wealthy people would simply leave the country, but this has proved not to be true of the majority. Patriotic Millionaires UK is an organisation of British millionaires who seek to change the current economic system that is failing the vast majority of us.
They agree that extreme wealth must contribute more to society, and their strapline is ‘We’re proud to pay and we’re here to stay’. They also state that 80% of millionaires support a tax of 2% on wealth over £10m. Another critical balancing act is informing people about the seriousness of the climate crisis without plunging them into despair. Screenings of the People’s Emergency Briefing continue to increase and have now exceeded 3,500 in the UK while beginning to spread worldwide. Bath University research shows that 87% of viewers felt more motivated to act, and taking action is what balances out anxiety and despair. On November 16 Parliament debates the call for the Government to organise national public emergency briefings. I’ve asked our MP Simon Hoare to attend.
Balancing acts and Budgets
NOT helped by decades of financial mismanagement, and the present global turmoil, the Government is having a hard time striking a balance between competing needs. Welfare vs Defence is often discussed, but there is one balancing act that dwarfs all others – that of Profit vs Planet. If we don’t get that right, then everything else will be swept away. We needed a Budget to address the moment we’re in, but what we got on October 28 was pretty much just continuity with a bit of tinkering. A few small steps in the right direction, but otherwise business as usual. This doubtless pleased the bond markets and industry, but in choosing to protect corporate profits over people and planet, the Budget betrayed our collective future. Yes, the Government faces difficult choices, but so too do
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Politics
blackmorevale.net
Budget had little hope or ambition
ANDY Burnham and John Healey entered No10 and No11 this summer promising, ominously, to upend what they dubbed 40 years of neoliberalism. Lofty ambition heralding a big Budget, right? Well, for better or worse, no. Indeed, a Chancellor who claimed to have quit as Defence Secretary on principle over lack of defence funding might have been expected to announce a clear plan for getting us to 3% on defence by 2030. Again, apparently not. I’m left scratching my head and wondering why poor old Sir Keir was booted out in June other than for a transient flush of Mancunian good vibes. More taxes on savers, small landlords and banks to pay very modest sums to some who are expected to be grateful. Those taxes, of course, will impact, albeit indirectly, beneficiaries cancelling out the Chancellor’s small handouts. Breathing space? A quick gasp maybe, nothing more. And that against the UK’s pitiful prospects for
Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire Dr Andrew Murrison growth – under 2% in every year until 2031. With taxes and public spending at their highest in peacetime, the Chancellor woefully failed to make the difficult choices that could put our economy on an even keel in the interests of generational fairness. The key admission from John Healey that the welfare bill will not fall before the next election will see pressure on the wider economy and individual households
worsen across the decade and beyond. As I set out in my remarks on the Budget in the Commons, ‘good growth in every post code’ may be a rhetorical ambition for the Prime Minister but we are certainly not seeing it in our postcodes in this corner of England. Since the general election, the priorities of Southwest Wiltshire have been ignored. The A303 improvements cancelled, the Westbury bypass still barely considered by government. VAT on independent schools forcing the closure of Bishopstrow College and nearby Leweston School, and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism punishing farmers from January, making some locally consider not planting crops due to the cost of fertiliser. CBAM could have been reversed in the Budget. It was not. Then there’s defence. When he resigned as Defence Secretary, Mr Healey said it was because “the current defence investment plans [are] falling
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Shell Bay at Studland on a pleasant October day PHOTO: Robin Boultwood
well short of what is required”. Four months on, the now Chancellor’s words still ring true. But there was barely a word about defence in the Budget. As it unravelled, it became clear – as I pointed out – that day-to-day defence spending is actually being cut. This means that the absolute basics, from funding for training exercises, to paying reservists, fuelling ships and aircraft and overtime for dockyard workers cannot be met. You can’t defend the country on good vibes. This Budget has been bad for the south west and bad for the country. The economy is in the doldrums and the tax burden enormous. The measures we need in my constituency to assist businesses and residents have not been taken, and vital defence funding, supposedly the top priority of this Chancellor, has not come to pass. What a wasted opportunity. Initial speculation suggested this may have been a pre-election Budget but turns out it’s just a wasted opportunity.
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Politics
blackmorevale.net
Budget did nothing for rural areas WAS that it? I must tell you, I sat through the Budget – I did not have a prayer card but unlike Mr Farage did not fear going into the Chamber – barely stifling a yawn. Our country faced with massive problems demanding urgent action. What were we met with? Cheaper gherkins and a few roadmaps of future reforms. Well! That will do it. Earlier in the week Ministers were urging us to stockpile canned goods – perhaps the Treasury is stuffed with them in order to allow the asleep-at-the-wheel Chancellor to kick them down the road. Disappointingly, but not surprisingly, there was nothing for rural areas of the country. Very few properties in North Dorset will benefit from the help with heating given the Council Tax band requirements. Vast swathes of North Dorset homes are heated
Conservative MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare by oil and there was zero help there at a time of escalating costs. The Family Farm Tax still hangs around our necks acting as a drag anchor on farm investment and innovation. Russia and potentially other aggressors are quaking in their boots in fear of the deadly 2027 Spending Review. When
did a Review become a substitute for a defence policy? The Budget presented an opportunity for the Chancellor to reshape national funding rules to ensure that rural areas get a better deal when it comes to education, local government, police and flood defence funding. Did we get it? I won’t insult your intelligence by stating the obvious. We did however get a greener light to move towards a Wessex Mayor. I am a proud devolutionist, but I am not that certain that another tier of governance is what the man and woman on the Shaftesbury omnibus is crying out for. I do not like, or support, the sales pitch of the Government – have a Mayor and you get more vital funding. If it is vital, we should be getting it now. It strikes me as being too much like a bribe. While I am convinced there
is merit in greater collaboration with rural Wiltshire and Somerset, I am not convinced that, apart from being part of the same county, that rural North Dorset has much in common with Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole. If it goes ahead, we will need to ensure that the new authority is interested in and cares about our rural areas. The closure of Leweston School does not pass the sniff test. Something has gone terribly wrong and the owners’ silence compounds this sense. Many North Dorset constituents have been affected. Parents losing prepaid fees. Students seeing friendships upended and studies disrupted. Workers left unpaid and unemployed. I am helping a number of them. If you have been affected and need help, email simon.hoare. mp@parliament.uk
leaving many farmers whose agreements are about to expire with no way back in. Some couldn’t get onto the website before it closed. The NFU rightly warned of ‘haves and have nots’, decided by who could click fastest rather than by the value of their work for nature and food production. I have written to Defra demanding answers, but the Budget offered nothing to put this right. This week, a farmer in Long Sutton told me he is putting nearly all his arable land down to meadow after three years of losses. All he wants is to make a living growing food. Yet the Budget offered nothing meaningful on food security and cut Defra’s day-to-day budget by £100m. Our farmers deserve far better. One positive announcement was that devolution for Wessex will move forward. I have long campaigned for more local decision making, and a Wessex
Mayor could unlock £460m a year for our region. But devolution must come with fair funding, and Somerset Council faces losing £21m a year through changes to rural funding, despite the higher cost of delivering services across our countryside. I am also deeply concerned about plans for a tourist tax, which could hit Somerset’s hospitality businesses and wider rural economy hard. I have written to Ministers and will scrutinise these plans closely. This Budget tinkers around the edges when we need fundamental change. Liberal Democrats would introduce an Essential Energy Guarantee, back British farmers through my Good Food Bill, and fix the Conservatives’ botched Brexit deal to cut red tape, boost businesses and generate billions to cut taxes and bills. Rural Britain deserves ambition, not another year of uncertainty.
Chancellor tinkered at the edges
LAST week’s Budget was billed as giving families some muchneeded breathing room. But for households, farmers and businesses across rural Somerset, it offered precious little relief. After years of Conservative chaos, our country is crying out for change. Yet Labour’s ‘steady as she goes’ Budget does little to tackle the cost of living or deliver the growth our economy needs. There were some welcome measures. Extending the 5p fuel duty cut will help rural motorists, for whom driving is a necessity, not a choice. But six months offers little certainty. Extra heating support is welcome but falls far short of what households need. I was particularly disappointed there was no price cap on heating oil. Across Glastonbury and Somerton, families who rely on oil have seen their costs more than double since February, with
Lib Dem MP for Glastonbury & Somerton Sarah Dyke no protection at all. Our farmers have been badly let down. Suspending fertiliser tariffs until December 2027 is welcome but does little to give farmers long-term certainty. That certainty was shattered in September, when the latest Sustainable Farming Incentive window opened and slammed shut in less than six hours. Its £233 million budget went on a first-come, first-served basis,
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
PUZZLES
The Wessex Event Company presents...
ISSUE 160
Bryanston Christmas Fair
In Association with
Wessex Events
21st & 22nd November | 10am-4pm | In association with The Blackmore Vale Ltd
Arrow words
Crossword
Famous conductors
Star system
Archaic
Cover
Once __ _ blue moon (2,1)
Connect
Academic’s viewpoint? (5,5)
Infuriate
1
2
1
12
8
8 TiVo, eg (inits)
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3
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13 13 13 Vivian, to her friends
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1414 14
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5 4
4
Just less than a jack
Porridge ingredient
Photo
4
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17 17 17
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1818 18
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1919 19
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Dietary quantity measure (inits)
Wordsearch Madonna Albums
O N M E E I L Y R S A R H B E H B Y B A A A N R M N P A O A A D E U A K I M I B O L I N T
I T G O D A A F D I Y F N A E
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AMERICAN LIFE BEDTIME STORIES CONFESSIONS TOUR EROTICA EVITA GHV TWO HARD CANDY I’M BREATHLESS
N H P B T A T A K S F O I E U
D V E L O O N H O I E O V U A
A N C T W O K N N U E F R I E L I S E G S D H I L M O A E N L F S N E T Y B O N A U I I R
LIKE A PRAYER LIKE A VIRGIN MADONNA MDNA MUSIC RAY OF LIGHT TRUE BLUE YOU CAN DANCE
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
PUZZLES
The Wessex Event Company presents...
ISSUE 160
Bryanston Christmas Fair
In Association with
Wessex Events
21st & 22nd November | 10am-4pm | In association with The Blackmore Vale Ltd
Sudoku 3D puzzle
Cryptic crossword 1
4 5 3 1 5 6
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8
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2
5
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Killer Sudoku Pro 26+
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Brain chain 46
+28
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+18
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Brain chain (hard version) 143
+19
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-25%
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3 6
6
2
RESULT
×4
n Puzzles copyright © Any Puzzle Media Ltd
For the solutions, turn to page 86
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Letters
blackmorevale.net
Why the obsession with speed? IF you use Dorset’s roads, you might have noticed the increase in ‘near misses’ caused by the need to overtake the one in front, not to mention those who misjudge and cause collisions. Speed is a major factor in UK road collisions, significantly increasing both the likelihood of a crash and the severity of injuries (RoSPA). More than 60% of speedrelated fatal collisions happen on rural roads, peaking on summer weekends around mid-afternoon (government figures). Applied to any other activity, this level of risk would result in an outright ban under Health and Safety legislation. However, as use of the road is wrongly considered a right, rather than privilege, it is ignored as an accepted risk. So, what does speeding look like? Official figures show that exceeding the signed limit imposed by the highway authority, driving too fast for road or weather conditions and aggressive driving are all contributory factors. ‘Tailgating’ constitutes an offence. The 2022 Highway Code states a road user should drive at a speed which allows him to stop well within the distance he can see to be clear. Anything closer is punishable by a fine and licence marking, as indeed is flashing headlights to warn others of a community speedwatch team working to improve safety. Many Dorset communities have achieved a reduced 20mph limit on the road passing their home or village, but not all drivers have respect for this hard won decision, choosing instead to rely on their own judgement of perceived safety. However, such a driver misses the point that the limit is not imposed for his safety but for the safety of those to whom he poses the risk. This week I visited the Royal village of Tollard to ‘reccy’ a group walk. The village road accommodates one modern
width vehicle with space for a pedestrian or cyclist to pass alongside. Speed is limited to enable all would be users of this only route through village. So why our obsession with speed? I suggest multiple factors. If you only move with the aid of a motor vehicle, you adjust to the speed you feel safe inside, but, if frequently you cycle or walk, the feel of speed hits you at a much lower pace – that is when breath comes short, wind buffets and legs become crucial for safety. After a cycling lesson when my trainee mastered balance, I received a panic message that, driving home, he had felt wobbly above 20mph! The car building trend for cushioned monsters is another factor as occupants are divorced from the sense of speed created by their passing – and note, the Highway Code requires a minimum 1.5m clearance when overtaking any road user, which gap increases with speed, so, if that gap does not exist, wait until it does – maybe all of 60 seconds! Dilys Gartside Instructor CyclewiseDorset.co.uk
would be willing to take up arms for Britain, and with conflicts continuing to rage around the world, it is time to look to peaceful alternatives. This is the message white poppies have carried since 1933, when members of the Co-operative Women’s Guild, many of whom had lost loved ones in the First World War, first made them to say ‘never again’. You can buy your white poppy at ppu.org.uk Colin Kerr, Davide Dionisi, Liz Cooke, Rev Matt Harbage, Chris Green Council Members of the Peace Pledge Union
Just help out, don’t complain
TO the rather grumpy complainant about Shaftesbury Carnival – New Blackmore Vale, October 23 – why don’t you consider helping out instead
of moaning? Countless people give up many hours of their time and money to construct the carts and help on the day for an event which brings much pleasure to so many. Perhaps Mr Grumpy should remember the charities that benefit from their efforts? Ian Bailey Via email
Living to a good age in the Vale
THE New Blackmore Vale’s recent edition carried 14 death notices, of which the youngest was 71. One notice gave no age. The remaining 12 were respectively aged 99, 94, 91, 89, 87, 87, 85, 84, 84, 83, 82 and 80. Can it be that Shangri-la has re-located in our blessed Vale? Peter Jackson Castle Cary
Reader’s Picture
The message of white poppies
AS Remembrance Sunday approaches, the Peace Pledge Union is encouraging people to remember all victims of war, civilians and military, by wearing a white poppy at their local ceremony. Civilians bear the heaviest cost of war. The UN recorded a 40% surge in civilian deaths in conflict in 2024 alone, and since the Second World War, civilians have made up an estimated 85% to 90% of those killed in armed conflicts. With recent Ipsos polling showing that one in two Britons (48%) say there are no circumstances in which they
NEW Blackmore Vale reader Holly Ridout said it was her lucky day when she spotted a horseshoe during a walk around Cann Common, Shaftesbury.
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
blackmorevale.net
Military Cross group for sale
WINCANTON Auctions is presenting two days of antiques, collectables, art and books next weekend. The sales are on Friday and Saturday, November 13-14, starting at 10am both days, with viewing on Thursday, November 12, 10am-4pm. Friday’s Antique & General Sale features about 100 lots of gold and silver jewellery, alongside militaria including a Military Cross medal group and a Martini-Henry rifle. A Cedric Hartman floor lamp leads the mid-century design selection, complemented by antiques and unusual collectables. Wincanton Auctions’ special
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Royal British Legion charity sale includes a remotecontrolled Mosquito aircraft opening at just £1, with no buyer’s commission charged on charity lots. Saturday’s Special Art & Library Sale offers traditional portraits, Scottish landscapes, an equestrian painting after Théodore Géricault and an intriguing two-headed bull. Book highlights include a signed, limited Poet Laureate edition set of Tennyson’s works, alongside antique volumes and other interesting books. To browse both catalogues and discover the full range on offer visit www. wincantonauctions.com
GENERAL AUCTION, Okeford Fitzpaine Village Hall. Sunday 8th Nov.1pm viewing 3pm start. Entries Invited.Tel.07971 298562
Antiques & Collectibles
ORIGINAL MOTORING AND MOTOR RACING MEMORABILIA wanted by established local dealer - Tel . 07771 518629 WANTED Books, collectables and bric-a-brac. Call Jack: 07542 389447 WANTED Classic Cars & Motorbikes. For private collection Call 07885 373113 or 01278 431244 Graham WANTED Coins and Coin Collections Call Nick 07754-058850 / trimoneta@hotmail.com
WE BUY RECORDS, COLLECTIONS LARGE AND SMALL Call BILL 07967 816506 or 01747 811100 Email: bill@tunes.co.uk
Antique & Classic Clock Repairs & Restoration Longcase Clocks a speciality Antique Clock sales
Clocks Unlimited
Tel: (01935) 423233 Mobile: 07974 520545 bclocksunlimited@aol.com www.clocksunlimited.co.uk
Next Sale
Asian Ceramics & Works of Art; Carpets, Rugs & Textiles; and Antique Furniture & Objects Saturday 7th November 2026 For a full list of our specialist sales please see our website
Antique & General Sale
Special Art & Library Sale
Fri 13 Nov 2026
Sat 14 Nov 2026
Both sales start at 10am
Viewing: Thu 12 Nov, 10am-4pm
www.wincantonauctions.com
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A large pair of 19th century Chinese cinnabar lacquer vases
SOLD FOR £36,000
For free verbal valuations please contact
Head Office & Salesrooms: Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury SP7 9AN 01747 855122 www.semleyauctioneers.com Offices in Semley, Wiltshire; Wimborne, Dorset; and South Kensington, London
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Antiques & Collectibles
Advertiser’s announcement
blackmorevale.net
Valuation days at Furniture antique auction house and modern ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers, Sherborne, is holding its two-day auction this month on Thursday and Friday, November 27-28, with Antiques & Collectors on Thursday at 10am and Jewellery, Silver & Watches on Friday, also at 10am. Viewing is on Wednesday, November 26, 10am-4pm. The catalogue and bidding is available online through easyliveauction.com and thesaleroom.com Acreman is accepting consignments for its upcoming sales and is happy to advise on anything prospective sellers may be considering for auction. Photographs can be emailed to the address below. Acreman also holds regular valuation days where prospective sellers can take in
their items for its specialists to evaluate at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, DT9 3PH. Valuation days, 10am-3pm: Jewellery & Watches, Tuesday; Silver & Obje’t D’art, Tuesday; Toys & Collectables, Wednesday; Oriental & Asian, Thursday; Coins, Stamps, Books & Ephemera, Fridays; Militaria, Friday; Textiles & Fashion, Monday; Paintings & Contemporary Art, Monday. Anyone unable to go in on the allocated days can phone or email to make an appointment. Acreman Auctioneers & Valuers is open Monday to Friday 9am-4pm. Anyone who has anything they would like to consign can contact Gill Norman on 01935 508764 or 07908 333577 or by email at auction@acreman streetantiques.co.uk
ACREMAN ST. AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS SHERBORNE
GENERAL ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES Thursday 27th November 10am
JEWELLERY, SILVER & WATCHES Friday 28th November 10am
Viewing
Wednesday 26th November 10am-4pm
Antique target ruby & diamond earrings Hammer £2,200
Catalogue available to view through thesaleroom.com & Easyliveauction.com We are still accepting items for our upcoming auctions For all enquiries please contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764 auction@acremanstreetantiques.co.uk
CLARKE’S is holding its last general sale before the festive season next weekend, the last opportunity to browse and buy before the Three-Day Christmas Sale. The general sale promises an excellent selection of furniture, spanning both antique and modern design, alongside a varied collection of antiques, jewellery and collectables. Furniture highlights include a late 19th century Howard & Sons Ltd country house upholstered armchair, estimated at £200-£300, and a George III mahogany secretaire chest, which could make £100-£200, as well as other pieces of fine furniture. Jewellery is always a popular section at Clarke’s, and this sale offers a good opportunity to find something special, whether
buyers are treating themselves or searching for last-minute Christmas gifts. The auction is on Friday and Saturday, November 13-14, with viewing from Wednesday to Friday, November 11-13, giving visitors plenty of opportunity to explore the sale before bidding begins. A spokesperson for Clarke’s said: “Thinking of selling with us? Now is an excellent time to discuss consigning your items into one of our upcoming sales. “Whether you have a single piece of furniture, jewellery or a collection of antiques and collectables, we would be delighted to hear from you.” To discuss consignments, arrange a valuation or enquire about house clearance services, contact Richard Clarke or Kay Finbow on 01747 685592.
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
blackmorevale.net
‘Soldier’ vases make £234,000
A MAGNIFICENT pair of Chinese blue and white porcelain ‘Soldier’ vases and covers from Breamore House led Duke’s Autumn auction in Dorchester, selling for £234,000, including buyer’s premium. Dating from the Kangxi period and standing 106cm high, the vases – pictured – had long occupied a guard-like position at Breamore House, the historic family home near Fordingbridge. Following significant pre-sale interest, strong competition saw them achieve the auction’s top price. The 80-lot collection also included a rare copy of The Byble, Antwerp, 1537, which sold for £31,200, and a statuary
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marble figure of a young boy, attributable to Joseph Wilton (1722–1803), which realised £27,300. Provenance remains increasingly important to collectors, adding history and context to individual objects. Meanwhile, the internet has transformed the auction market, enabling regional auction houses to present important collections to buyers worldwide. The Breamore House collection contributed to an excellent result for the Autumn Auction, which realised £513,420, with 89% of lots sold. Duke’s is now inviting consignments for its Winter Auction, taking place in January 2027. Contact Duke’s to arrange a complimentary valuation.
Upcoming Auctions A sian A rt The Book Auction Interior s & Design J e w e l l e r y, W at c h e s , a c c e s s o r i e s, W i n e s, Sp i ri t s a n d Si lv er
Free Valuations | Entries Invited Find more information at www.dukes-auctions.com
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Antiques & Collectibles
‘Bessy’ starring in classic car sale
A 77-YEAR-OLD Triumph Roadster, like the one used by Bergerac in the hit television police detective series in the 1980s and rebooted in 2025, is entered in the Charterhouse auction of classic cars at Haynes Motor Museum on Thursday, November 19. “This Triumph was a great-looking sports car in 1949 when wartime rationing was still in force and supplies limited,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house. ‘Bessy’, as the Triumph 2000 Roadster is affectionately known – pictured – underwent a 10-year nut and bolt restoration in the 1980s and 1990s. Restored to a concours standard, ‘Bessy’ has only been driven three miles subsequently over the past 30 years and remains in stunning condition. She is one
19th November
of the best available today. ‘Bessy’, estimated to sell for £18,000-£22,000, is now looking for a new home as her owner has been advised by his wife she would like to use the garage to store her bicycles! Charterhouse is still accepting entries for the classic car auction and for its classic motorcycle sale, also at Haynes, on November 26. Richard Bromell and the team at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, are available for valuations and advice on 01935 812277 or via rb@charterhouse-auction.com
12th November
26th November
November Auction Programme Vintage Gun & Flask Collection 11th Militaria, Coins, Stamps & Toys 12th Clocks, Antiques & Interiors 13th Viewing, Lots & Live Bidding on our Website
Specialist Valuation Days in Sherborne Beswick, Doulton & Worcester Ceramics 9th Jewellery, Watches, Gold & Silver 10th Pictures, Books, Maps & Postcards 11th Wine, Whisky & Port (bottles or cases) 12th
Classic Car Auction 19th November Classic Bike Auction 26th November Further entries now being accepted
The Long Street Salerooms Sherborne DT9 3BS 01935 812277 • www.charterhouse-auction.com
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Church • Anglican High Mass at Wimborne St Giles: First Sunday of each month at 11am. • Blandford Methodist Church: Sundays – services at 10.45am. Thursdays – coffee and chat 10am-noon. Fridays – lunch club for over-55s from noon. Phone Joyce Wild on 07817 505543 to book. The church offers help to those in need – call church steward John Cornish on 07799 516735. • Bell Street United Church, Shaftesbury: Sundays – services at 10.30am. Second Sunday of the month, All Age Service. • Blandford Evangelical Church: Sunday – 10am Family Service. Monday Fellowship – weekly, 2.30pm-3.30pm, term times only. Tuesday – Footprints, activities playtime for pre-school children, 10am11.30am and 1.15pm-2.45pm, term times only. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – small groups meet at homes at 7.30pm. • Castleton, Sherborne, St Mary Magdalene (DT9 3SA): First, third and fourth Sundays, Sung Mattins; second and fifth Sundays, Holy Communion. All services are BCP at 11.15am. • Chalbury Church: Fourth Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion. • Hinton Martell: Second Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion. • Horton Church: First Sunday of the month, 10am Holy Communion. • Horton & Chalbury Village Hall: Third Sunday of the month, 9am Breakfast Church. • Kingston Lacy: Second Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion. Fourth Sunday of the month, 9.15am Family Service. • Lufton Church: Prayer Book services every Sunday at 6pm. Sung Mass on the third Sunday. See www.lufton.co.uk for details. • Our Lady of Lourdes & Saint Cecilia, Blandford: Sunday, 9am Holy Mass; Monday/ Wednesday/Thursday/Friday, 9.10am Morning Prayers, 9.30am Holy Mass; Tuesday, 6.10pm Evening Prayers,
blackmorevale.net 6.30pm Holy Mass; Saturday, 9.30am Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament/Confessions; 5.30pm Vigil Mass of Sunday. • Our Lady’s, Marnhull: Sunday Mass, 9am and 6pm. • Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints’ Wardour Catholic Parish: Sunday Mass – Sacred Heart, Tisbury, 9am, coffee after Mass; All Saints’ Wardour 10.30am. • Shaftesbury Benefice: Remembrance Sunday, November 8. St Peters Spoken Communion at 8am, meet at war memorial at 10.45am and then go to St Peters for service. (St Peters is currently closed and if it remains so all updates will be on the website). Wednesday, November 11, Holy Communion at 10.30am. St Mary’s Motcombe 10.15am; Compton Abbas 10.45am; St James to join St Peters in the morning, Pilgrim service at 6pm; Melbury Abbas 10.45am; The Orchards 10.50am; Enmore Green Morning Prayer 11.15am, Wednesday, November 11, 10.50am. November 15 – St Peters Celebration of the Word 9.30am, Monday, November 16, Compline 7pm, Wednesday, November 18, Holy Communion at 10.30am; St James Parish Communion 9.30am; St Mary’s, Motcombe Breakfast Church 10am, Evening Worship 6pm; Compton Abbas Parish Communion 11.15am; Enmore Green Moring Worship 11.15am. • Shapwick: Third Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion. • Sherborne Abbey: Sunday, 8am Holy Communion, 9.30am Parish Eucharist and 6pm Choral Evensong. Monday to Saturday, 8.30am Morning Prayer; The Sepulchre Chapel. Mondays, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Tuesday, noon CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Wednesday, 10.30am Holy Communion with Homily; The Lady Chapel (alternates CW and BCP). Thursday, noon BCP Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Friday, 9am Ecumenical
Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. First Friday of the month, 9am Requiem Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. Third Friday of the month, 11am Remembering the Fallen. Saturday, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. • Stour Vale Benefice: Sunday, November 8 – 9.15am Said Communion, Christ Church, East Stour; 10.30am Benefice Remembrance Service, St John the Baptist, Buckhorn Weston. Sunday, November 15 – 10.30am Morning Worship, Christ Church, East Stour; 10.30am Parish Communion, St Mary’s, West Stour; 3pm Thanksgiving Service, St Andrew’s, Todber. • St Benedict’s, Gillingham: Sunday Mass, 11am. • St Gregory’s, Marnhull: Sunday services 8am and 10am. Other services, visit www. stgregorysmarnhull.org.uk • St John’s Church, Enmore Green: Service every Sunday at 11.15am; parish communion the first Sunday of the month; prayer services every other Sunday. • St John’s Church, Broadstone: The Neruda String Quartet, Sunday, November 15, 4pm. For tickets and more information, visit www. broadstonemusicseroes.co.uk • St Luke’s, West Orchard: November 8, 10.50am – Remembrance Service, joint with St Margaret’s, Margaret Marsh. • St Margaret’s, Margaret Marsh: November 8, 10.50am – joint Remembrance at St Luke’s. • St Mary’s, Motcombe: Evening worship (BCP) – every first Sunday 6pm; parish communion – every second and fourth Sunday 9.30am; evening worship – every third Sunday 6pm. • St Mary’s, Sturminster Newton: First, third and fourth Sundays – 11am Holy Communion; second Sunday – 9.30am Morning Prayer; fifth Sunday – 11am Benefice Holy Communion; second and fourth Sundays – 6pm Evensong; Wednesdays – 10am Holy
Communion. • St Mary & St Bartholomew’s Church, Cranborne: Book of Common Prayer Evensong with the Benefice Choir, first Sunday of the month at 6pm. • St Mary’s Church, Stalbridge: All Sunday Services start at 9.30am. Rector, Canon Richard – phone 01963 363367; email canonrick@icloud.com • St Nicholas, Durweston: Family Communion Service every first Sunday of the month 11am; Evening Service every third Sunday of the month 6pm. • St Peter’s, Hinton St Mary: First, second and third Sundays, 9.30am Morning Prayer. Fourth Sunday, 9.30am Holy Communion. • St Thomas’, Lydlinch: Second Sunday, Holy Communion 11am; third Sunday, Evensong 6pm; fourth Sunday, Matins 11am. • Sturminster Christian Fellowship: Service every Sunday at 10.30am. • Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday, November 8 – 10.45am Act of Remembrance at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary; 10.45am Act of Remembrance at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Marshall; 10.45am Act of Remembrance at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 10.55am Family and Remembrance Service at All Saint’s Church, Tarrant Keynston; 10.55am Communion and Remembrance Service at All Saint’s Church, Langton Long. Sunday, November 15 – 9.30am Communion at St John the Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 9.30am All Age Worship at St Mary the Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Rushton; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints Church, Langton Long. • West Camel Independent Methodists: Meeting at All Saints Church (BA22 7QB). Sundays, November 8, 15 and 22, 3pm – afternoon services. Sunday, November 29 3pm – United Service. A very warm welcome to everyone. Contact Geoff.mead@yahoo.com or phone 01935 850838.
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Arts & Entertainment
blackmorevale.net
TV fundraiser is going off the rails... CHARITY cabaret The Big Bad Night Live at Shaftesbury Arts Centre is set to coin in the cash for local charity The Brave and Determined – after a previous cabaret in 2024 raised £5,200. The show, presented by Joni de Winter and Susan Grant – of Belle Street Productions – takes the form of a live television fundraiser that goes wrong. Live music and comedy are promised as Joni and Susan are joined on stage by Martin Porter, Rebecca Chambers, Lauren Blundell, Pete Robson, Ben Francis, Conor Smith and Rachael Alexander. The Brave and Determined is a Shaftesbury based charity that provides lifesaving early intervention counselling to anyone in England suffering a mental health crisis. Joni de Winter said: “The Brave and Determined means a great deal to ourselves and to people locally, and we want to help them keep doing that work.
we’ve had a lot of fun coming up with this year’s show. The television fundraiser might go
off the rails, but the money raised will be doing some very real good.” The Big Bad Night Live is being performed on Friday, November 20, at 7.30pm and Saturday, November 21, at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets priced £20 are available from the Shaftesbury Arts Centre website and box office, with booking information also available at www.bellestreet.com
FAST-PACED new comedy The No. 1 Holiday Destination, touring Dorset this weekend, centres around a freshly independent country with big ideas and no plan for what comes next. A nation decides to solve the problem of mass tourism once and for all by nationalising it. What starts as an idealistic attempt to protect culture, community and coastline snowballs into a spectacular
experiment, complete with absurd rules, escalating chaos and consequences no-one saw coming. The No.1 Holiday Destination is at Powerstock Hut on Saturday, November 7, at 7.30pm, Briantspuddle village hall on Sunday, November 8, at 3pm, and The Mowlem in Swanage on Monday, November 9, at 7.30pm. Tickets are at www. artsreach.co.uk
Belle Street Productions and fellow cast members of the Big Bad Night Live, are at Shaftesbury Arts Centre PHOTO: Hughes Photography
Raising £5,200 at the last cabaret gave us a very good reason to do it again. “We’re putting on a show people will enjoy coming to in its own right. There are some brilliant performers involved, plenty of music and a fair amount of chaos. Buying a ticket is a way to support the charity while having a good night out.” Susan Grant added: “There’s a lot of talent in this area, and it’s a pleasure to bring these performers together for Brave and Determined. “We had such a good response to the last cabaret, and
PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OU G W E B SR ITE
THE BOHEMIANS
LOS PACAMINOS LIVE
Fri 6th November 7.30pm Tickets £27
Sun 8th November 7.30pm Tickets £32.50
BAY CITY ROLLERS
THE BRITISH CARPENTERS
Fri 13th November 7.30pm Tickets £31 (Last few tickets!)
Sat 14th November 7.30pm Tickets £27
STEVE KNIGHTLEY & THE WINTER YARD BAND Tues 10th November 7.30pm Tickets £29.50 COMEDY ARCH PRESENT LIVE AT THE TIVOLI Tues 17th November 7.30pm Tickets £22.50 (Age 18+)
PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KING KAST WOFFO UKINKS R E B S I T 7.30pm Weds 11th November E Tickets £25
BANFF FILM FESTIVAL (BLUE PROGRAMME) Weds 18th November 7.30pm Tickets £17.50 / £15.50 concs + groups of 6+
PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OU G W E B SR ITE
THE PHANTOM RASPBERRY BLOWER OF OLD LONDON TOWN
Thurs 12th November 7.30pm Tickets £21 THE GEORGE MICHAEL LEGACY FEATURING WAYNE DILKS
Thurs 19th November 7.30pm Tickets £30
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Arts & Entertainment
Jack the Ripper revealed? AFTER nearly 140 years, the identity of Jack the Ripper is set to be revealed in a new show at Shaftesbury Arts Centre. An Evening with Jack the Ripper, written and hosted by Steve Morgan – pictured – will journey into the sordid realms of Victorian London to retrace the footsteps of the victims and follow the trail of a killer. A path that will ultimately lead to the unmasking of the man who cast the darkest of shadows over the East End of London in 1888.
Royal College scholar plays Bach
ST Peter’s Church in Dorchester is the venue for a concert featuring a young scholar from the Royal College of Music (RCM). Markus Sadler will perform Bach’s Goldberg Variations BWV 988 on a Robin Jennings Flemish reproduction harpsichord in the evocative, candlelit setting of the church. The British-German pianist and harpsichordist is an undergraduate student at the RCM, where he is a Steel Charitable Trust scholar. He studies piano with Gordon Fergus-Thompson, his mentor since his time at the RCM Junior Department (2021-23), and harpsichord with
Steve Morgan said: “I’m convinced that by the end of this show the audience will have stared into the eyes of Jack the Ripper. The only people to have previously done so were his victims. This time however, the audience will live to tell the tale.” Award-winning producer and broadcaster Steve Morgan has taken thousands of people on his ‘Ripper Walks’ through the East End, where he retraces the steps of the killer through the streets he stalked. Now he has adapted the story
Pianist and harpsichordist Markus Sadler
Jane Chapman. Markus has participated in masterclasses with Melvyn Tan, Peter Donohoe, Noriko Ogawa and Stephen Hough. Recent engagements include solo performances in the Bechstein Hall and Bartok’s 3rd Piano Concerto with the RCM Philharmonic Orchestra. The performance on Friday, November 13, at 7pm, will be presented without an interval and last about 70 minutes. Tickets are priced £15 and are available online at www. ticketsource.com/st-peterschurch-dorchester
blackmorevale.net
THE film Michael, the story of pop superstar Michael Jackson, is being screened at Ibberton, Belchalwell & Woolland village hall. The showing is on Thursday, November 19, at 7.30pm and entry is £6. Popcorn and ice cream, a bar and raffle will be available.
TALENTED local artists and makers will showcase their work in the Queen Thorne Artist and Makers Exhibition. The event, organised by three Trent-based creatives – a ceramicist, an artist and a floral artist – is at Trent Memorial Hall on Friday and Saturday, November 20-21. A spokesperson for the event said: “We want to provide a platform for those who may not yet have the confidence or opportunity to exhibit on a larger scale, bringing likeminded creatives together and giving them the chance to share what they do best.” The exhibition is on Friday 1-3pm, followed by a private viewing that evening, and on Saturday 10am–5pm.
HAND-PICKED local businesses and artisan craftspeople will gather once again to showcase their wares at The Christmas Artisan Market at The New Digby Hall in Sherborne tomorrow (Saturday, November 7). Organiser Rachel Sprake – pictured – who runs her own preserves and hamper business from her farmhouse kitchen near Sherborne, said: “We have gathered the most amazing group of talented people who will be selling local produce, crafts and gifts. “Held earlier than we have in the past, it’s the perfect opportunity to get your Christmas shopping underway while also supporting small, local businesses. “We really do have something
for everyone – chutneys, cheese, local honey, ceramics, candles, jewellery, crocheted and knitted garments, artists, socks, cards and wrap, gingerbread houses – the list goes on!” The pop-up photography studio will also be back, where professional photographer Lucie will offer slots for family snaps in time for Christmas. The newly formed Marnhull Tuggers tug-of-war group will be serving up coffee and cake to raise money for new kit and recruit new members of all ages. The market runs from 9.30am-4pm – for more information, see its social media pages or phone Rachel on 07772 011980.
SHAKESPEAREAN silliness is in store with The Tragedy of Omlet, Prince of Henmark. The show is at Chetnole village hall on Friday,
November 20, at 7.30pm and Portland Royal Manor Theatre on Wednesday, November 18, both at 7.30pm. Further information and tickets at www.artsreach.co.uk
for the stage where he will explore one of the greatest unsolved criminal cases in history in a bid to reveal the identity of Jack the Ripper. An Evening with Jack the Ripper is on Saturday, November 7.
Artisan market
GOT A STORY? Then email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Events
blackmorevale.net SANTA IS ON HIS WAY, Bath & West Showground Sat 5th Dec & Sat 12th Dec. includes a ride on the miniature train and a pesent from Santa! Tickets £15 for 1 child and 2 adults. santaspecials@essmee.org.uk
CHRISTMAS MARKET, Saturday 14th november, East Coker Village hall, 11am-3pm, Crefts, gifts, raffle, food & drink. FREE ENTRY. In aid of East Coker Playgroup. office. ecplaygroup@gmail.com
HANDMADE AT STOURHEAD Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th November 10-4, Stourton Memorial Hall Stourhead Gillingham Handmade There will be seventeen carefully curated stalls by local crafts people and artists, making it a beautiful event to visit. FREE ENTRY
FLOWERS AT CHRISTMAS. A festive evening with Beryl Cotton, flower arrangements. Thur 26th Nov, 6.45pm for a 7.30pm start. Tickets £15 in advance or £20 on the door. to reserve sherborneflowerclub@gmail. com
SHAFTESBURY EMPORIUM, Friday 13th & Saturday 14th November, 9 - 4.30pm, Town Hall Shaftesbury, Lots of locally crafted & consumable items for sale. Free Entry, Please bring cash! Supporting DSAA & Weldmar Hospice, Next events: 11th & 12th December.
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SIXPENNY HANDLEY COMMUNITY CINEMA H is for Hawk Village Hall, Common Road SP5 5NJ Friday 13 November | 6.30 for 7.00 pm £6 | Bar & snacks | Information: www. sixpennyhandleyvillagehall.org
S.S.A.P.C. SORT OUT 15th November at 8am. Windmill Farm, Montacute. TA15 6UT For info contact 01935-824543 or 01935-822845
LYN’s BINGO on November 9th Marnhull Royal British Legion. Sodom Lane (DT10 1HR). Eyes down 7pm.
Pen Selwood Craft Market Village Hall, BA9 8LS
Saturday 7th November 10.00am - 3.00pm Beautiful handmade items for sale in time for Christmas Refreshments available
WINCANTON MODEL RAILWAY EXHIBITION SATURDAY 7TH NOVEMBER 10AM – 4:30PM SUNDAY 8TH NOVEMBER 10AM – 4:00PM KING ARTHUR’S SCHOOL, WEST HILL, WINCANTON, SOMERSET, BA9 9BX
ADULTS: £7.00 ACCOMPANIED CHILDREN: FREE
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
Winter Brocante at the Larmer Tree
W
e hope you can join us at The Winter Brocante on Friday & Saturday 13 - 14th November in the beautiful setting of the Larmer Tree Gardens near Salisbury SP5 5PY.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
A favourite winter fair, long anticipated for Christmas shopping and seasonal gifts and homewares. This year the Brocante will host 40 Exhibitors offering a considered range of sustainable seasonal gifts & decorations, homewares, interiors, textiles, art, decorative antiques, furniture, French Brocante and flowers. You will be able to enjoy fresh coffee, tea, crepes, wood fired pizzas and light refreshments in the beautiful gardens after shopping, and explore the Victorian pleasure gardens and follies there. The fair will be held over 2 days. On Friday 13th November and Saturday 14th November 10 - 3pm each day - all Adult tickets £8 or £7 if booked in advance. Children free, no concessions. There is plenty of free parking on site, accessible facilities and beautiful gardens to explore. Please note that assistance dogs only are allowed into the event and gardens. For more details about The Winter Brocante or to buy advance tickets, then please visit Winter Brocante | The Dorset Brocante
W I N T E R B RO CA N T E The L a r me r Tre e Nr Sa l i s bu r y, SP 5 5P Y
F rida y 13 t h N ove m be r 10 - 3 p m S a t urda y 14 t h N ove m be r 10 - 3 p m Advance tickets £7 | On the gate £8 Children under 16 free Assistance Dogs Only A c a reful l y c ura ted sel ec ti o n o f 40 Ar tisan, V i nta g e & Frenc h B ro c a nte Exhi b i to rs o f f ering festi ve ho m ewa res, sea so na l g i f ts, textile s & l i fest yl e p ro d uc ts w i th Ar ti sa n fo od & d ri nks i n the g a rd ens. Fo r fur t her i nfo rm at i o n & t o buy advance t i cket s, pl ease v i si t : www.t hedo rset bro cant e .co .uk
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Events
blackmorevale.net
LEARN TO PARTNER DANCE
Get ready for Christmas in Swanage Get ready for Christmas in Swanage ADVERTISING FEATURE
Swanage Railway From 28th November & throughout December Enjoy the magical family experiences of GRANDE the Father Christmas Yuletide Express and Christmas Carol Trains, plus the luxurious festive experience of the Christmas Belle. For more information visit www.swanagerailway.co.uk/events Christmas on Swanage Pier From 5th to 23rd December The amazing ‘Lighting Up Lives’ is back! Visit Father Christmas with his real-life reindeer and donkeys. Plus live music and much much more! For more orota ONLYvisit WithdDChris information n a www.swanagepiertrust.com
£8
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Swanage Railway From 28th November & throughout December Enjoy the magical family experiences of Swanage Christmas Lights Switch On the Father Christmas Yuletide Express Saturday 28th November 2pm-4.30pm and Christmas Carol Trains, plus the Come and join in the fun as we switch luxurious festive experience of the Christmas Belle. For more information on our festive lights. 11AM - 2PM visit Che t no l e Christmas Street Market www.swanagerailway.co.uk/events Saturday 5th December V il lag10am-4pm e Ha all A traditional Christmas Street Market Christmas on Swanage Pier th rd run by the Rotary Charity, with over 80 From 5 to 23 December The amazing ‘Lighting Up Lives’ is festive stalls. 11AM - 2PM back! Visit Father Christmas with his And Don’t Forget... real-life reindeer and donkeys. Plus live MilborMilborne Port Swanage is famous for its wide range music and much much more! For more Village Hallyou information visit of independent shops selling items won’t find anywhere else. www.swanagepiertrust.com Christmas Craft drop-in. For more information and to book, visit www.durlston.co.uk
Christmas Craft drop-in. For more information and to book, visit www.durlston.co.uk
29 NOVEMBER
Swanage Christmas Lights Switch On Saturday 28th November 2pm-4.30pm Come and join in the fun as we switch on our festive lights.
5 DECEMBER
Christmas Street Market Saturday 5th December 10am-4pm A traditional Christmas Street Market run by the Rotary Charity, with over 80 festive stalls.
Beginner sessions
regular class night from 7 Jan 2027
Why not make a day of it and sample Artisans on the Beach Artisans on the Beach one of our cafes, restaurants, or pubs, or Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday son Thursday (£10pp) Every Friday, per perSaturday and SundayEvery maybe just have fish and chips on our from 21st November to 20th December 7.15pm - 10.30pm from 21st November to 20th December award winning beach. A unique location for a Christmas Fair. here! Fair.Milborne Port Village Hall A unique location forBook a Christmas Local hand-crafted items presented for For more information, please see Local hand-crafted items presented for MEET NEW HAVE FUN & learn to visit-dorset.com/Swanage or for a full sale by the Artisans themselves from the sale by the Artisans themselves from the dance! PEOPLE GET ACTIVE list of daily events over the Christmas Swanage Beach Huts. Swanage Beach Huts. No experience orplease partner period contact:needed! Swanage Durlston at Christmas Durlston at Christmas Two left feet welcome! Information Centre Throughout December Throughout December 01929 766018 or Lots of festive activities throughout book and for further information LotsTo of festive activities throughout welcome@swanage.gov.uk December including the Crazy Email: grande@ceroc.com December including the Crazy Christmas Activity Trial, Christmas Check out our Facebook page: Christmas Activity Trial, Christmas https://www.facebook.com/CerocGrande Parkrun, Glass Engraving and a Christmas in Swanage Parkrun, Glass Engraving and a
And Don’t Forget... Swanage is famous for its wide range of independent shops selling items you won’t find anywhere else. Why not make a day of it and sample one of our cafes, restaurants, or pubs, or maybe just have fish and chips on our award winning beach. For more information, please see visit-dorset.com/Swanage or for a full list of daily events over the Christmas period please contact: Swanage Information Centre 01929 766018 or welcome@swanage.gov.uk Check out our Facebook page: Christmas in Swanage
.
Christmas
Local, unique hand-crafted gifts presented for sale by the crafters themselves from the
Swanage Beach Huts
S W A N A G .E With our wide range of independent shops and attractions, Swanage has so much to offer at Christmas
•.
-
0
IN
Local, unique hand-crafted gifts presented for sale Discover unique themselves and individual by the crafters fromgifts the as well as enjoying a fantastic festive day out
Swanage Beach Huts
Friday, Saturday and Sunday leading up to Christmas
Friday, Saturday and Sunday leading up to Christmas
Saturday 21st November to Sunday 20th December 2026
Saturday 21st November to Sunday 20th December 2026
Parking £4 per day in December Main Beach and Broad Road Car Parks
Welcome to
SWANAGE
christmas leaflet 2026.indd 2
16/09/2026 13:03
chr
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Home & Garden
blackmorevale.net
Prepare the ground for new hedges by Sally Gregson HEDGES mark boundaries in very friendly ways. They provide food and shelter for all forms of small wildlife, and do not blow over in high winds. Whether planting a new hedge as an addition to the existing garden layout, or as a first step in the structure of a new garden, preparing the ground is important. As with any other plant, hedging will grow away faster in wellprepared soil. And autumn is the ideal time to dig out the weeds from the site and incorporate plenty of organic matter into the soil. An old gardener would inform the new that smaller hedge plants will catch up within a year or two, especially
51
if the ground is well prepared. Add an organic fertiliser to break down slowly during the winter months and become available to the young plants in spring when they need a boost. Yew is notoriously slowgrowing and it may take a few years longer to reach the desired height, but it will only need cutting once a year thereafter. Hedge-trimming does not get any easier as backs get older. Beech – Fagus sylvatica – and Hornbeam – Carpinus betulus – also hold their leaves throughout the winter if cut as a hedge, where other hedge plants do not. Beech prefers a draining, alkaline soil, whereas Hornbeam is more tolerant. Since box has become so
Beech holds its leaves throughout the winter if cut as a hedge
difficult to grow, it can be a problem to find a replacement. But Euonymus ‘Jean Hughes’ is a dwarf plant that is slow growing. And to the uninitiated, looks just the same as box. The plants are more expensive in the first place but if a long, low hedge is needed, Euonymus is as easy as, if a little slower,
than box. Alternatively, if the soil is light and well-drained and the area is sunny, a lowgrowing hedge of Hebe topiaria is an easy dwarf evergreen that would need to be trimmed only once or twice a year. It roots easily and quickly and would soon make a small hedge within a formal garden.
Best Price Guarantee* Massive selection of remnants
Large selection of carpets
Wide Selection of rugs
Large hardflooring showroom area with LVT, Wood and Laminate
FREE Planning & Estimating Service on all carpets & hard floors | Free Parking
*Best price guarantee - relates to any high street retailer.
Wilton Shopping Village, King Street, Wilton, Salisbury, SP2 0RS Monday Friday: 9.30am - 5:30pm | Saturday: 9am - 5pm | Sunday: 10am - 4pm
01722 742733 www.wiltoncarpets.co.uk
52
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Home & Garden
blackmorevale.net PRECISION FENCING & GATES
rth Dorset Surgeons North Tree Dorset Tree Surgeons
e carry out allcarry aspects surgery, We outofalltree aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting and cutting stump grinding. hedge and stump grinding. Ash diebackAsh specialist. dieback specialist. Fully insured andinsured NPTC qualified. Fully and NPTC qualified.
Call WillCall today ontoday on Will 747 854517 07872or 970741 01747or 854517 07872 970741
fessionalProfessional ExperiencedExperienced Reliable
Reliable
• Installation • Repair • Maintenance Feel free to give us a call on 07355-295534 or email at Precision-fencing@hotmail.com
All types of blinds supplied and fitted for home, office, conservatory or commercial premises. We also supply patio awnings (electric and manual), shutters, curtains and poles.
KEEP IT LOCAL!
FREE
No obligation quotes
01747 852111 • info@bvblinds.co.uk • www.bvblinds.co.uk
Surgery.Reductions. Reductions. Felling. TreeTree Surgery. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip supplies. Woodchip supplies. Family run business since 1946 Tel:business 01963 250005 Family run since 1946 Mobile: 07976250005 934 252 Tel: 01963 Mobile: 07976 934 252
Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turfing Free Quotations amralphlandscaping@gmail.com Tel: 01747 631471 www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk Mobile: 07921 637227
+
Removals throughout Dorset and beyond Excellent
Call us now – 0808 175 1966 ◆ Complete packing services ◆ Overnight and long term storage and delivery ◆ UK wide removals
◆ Fine art, wine cellars, specialist items ◆ In person or remote video surveys ◆ European removals
sales@armishaws.com | www.armishaws.com Wincanton Business Park, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9RU
53
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Home & Garden
blackmorevale.net
SKIP HIRE Clive Smith Waste Transfer Note.qxp_Layout 1 01/10/2020 09:33 Page 1
Clive Smith Ltd. SKIP HIRE
SKIP HIRE Waste Transfer Note
Smiths Triangle, Fifehead, St Quinton, Sturminster Newton, DT10 2AW (Also disposal site) www.clivesmithskips.co.uk Email: clivesmithskips@hotmail.co.uk
Tel: 01258 860 166 Mobile: 07974 822243 Waste Carriers Number: CBDU112820 Permit Number: EPR/JB3101KP VAT Reg Number: 634 6316 44
Ticket No:
PLEASE NOTE
CUSTOMERS ORDERING VEHICLES OFF THE PUBLIC HIGHWAY DO SO ENTIRELY ON THEIR OWN RESPONSIBILITY
IT IS DANGEROUS TO TRANSPORT AN OVERLOADED SKIP, THIS INCLUDES BOARDS TO INCREASE THE SIZE OF THE LOAD. THE DRIVER MAY REFUSE TO REMOVE AN OVERLOADED SKIP AND/OR AN EXTRA CHARGE WILL APPLY TO COVER COSTS.
• No Asbestos • Do not move skip • No Plasterboard/Gypsum • No Fires in Skip • No Sludge • NO Fridges/ Freezers • Tyres • Gas Bottles • Toxic Solvents • Paints and Liquids
PLEASE NOTE
Date ________________ ALL AREAS COVERED ONLY • AVAILABLE • LEVEL LOADS ALL SIZE OF SKIP PLEASE RING
CLIVE SMITH (See Condition 17 overleaf).
Vehicle Registration
Driver
Customer
Address
ANYTIME
01258 860 166 or 07974 822 243 S.I.C Code: 38110
DATE
Mixed Con, Brick
170107
Concrete
170101
DELIVERY
6 Yrd
Soil & Stone
170504
8 Yrd
G Mixed Waste
170904
EXCHANGE COLLECTION
WHITE - OFFICE
SIGNATURE ________________________________
YELLOW - CUSTOMER
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS (SEE REVERSE)
Tel: 01258 440838 or 07853 275379 enquiries@back2market.com www.
.com
BOOK YOUR FREE HOME VISIT
01258 313110
L
FA
M I LY B U
SI
N
S
Plus Sheds, Attics, Garages & Gardens Quality Items Offset Registered Waste Carrier
EXPERTLY MEASURED PROFESSIONALLY FITTED
A
ES
HOUSE CLEARANCE
ORDER NOW FOR THE WINTER
TA
2
PRINT NAME __________________________________
ES
PRECISION TURFING, Tel: 07496-863806. email precision-turfing@hotmail.com
BL
20
0
By signing this form I confirm I have fulfilled my duty to apply the Waste Hierarchy as required by Regulation 12 of the Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011.
C
Description
2 Yrd
4 Yrd
LO
Skip Size
IS H E D IN
www.AshleyBlindsUK.com
HUSSEY CARPET AND FLOORING, South Street, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4AP Domestic and Commercial Carpets,Vinyl,Luxury Vinyl Tiles, Laminate and Wood Flooring. Contact Chris Hussey 07885-273470 husseyflooring@gmail.com
HAMBLEDONS YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST DRIVEWAY CONTRACTORS
Groundworks & Concrete
Block Paving
Natural Stone & Patio
Tarmac
Resin Bonded Surfacing
Fencing
TRY BEFORE YOU BUY! Try our products in your space by using the Visualiser Tool on our website.
Simply upload an image of your property and choose any swatch you fancy to generate your design.
Station Road Gillingham Dorset SP8 4PZ
01747 822080
info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk
Premium Outdoor Services • Hedge Cutting & Maintenance • Hedge Reduction & Removal • Hedge & Tree Planting • Fencing & Gates • Decking & Pergolas • Sheds & Garden Buildings • Concrete & Garden Building Bases • Drainage & Soakaways • Gravel Driveways & Paths • Retaining Walls • Turfing • Devegetation & Site Clearance • Security Bollards • Commercial & Domestic Welcome
North Dorset Based 01258 721552 07833 475565
hambledons.net info@hambledons.net Get In Touch For a Free Quote
54
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Home & Garden For all your fencing and decking needs Closeboard, panels & sheds supplied and fitted. Gates made to measure.
blackmorevale.net WANTED Dave buys all types of tools Call 01935 428975
Sherborne Fencing Ltd Tel: 01935 814272 Mobile: 07814 246332
GUTTERS CLEARED • • • • • •
Windows, Fascias, Soffits, Gutters cleaned, Repairs, Free Estimates 07788-376752
A FRIENDLY FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS
Stockists of new Alko, Mountfield, Stiga, Weibang and Echo. Servicing, repairs, and parts for all major brands. Come and see our range of garden machinery including lawn mowers, chainsaws, hedge cutters, battery products and more. www.gillinghamgardenmachinery.co.uk
01747 859564 Unit 1, Brickyard Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4JL
GC GARDEN CARE
TREEWISE
Tree Pruning/Cutting Lawn Mowing Weed Control Hedge Cutting Driveway/Patio Cleaning Landscaping Low Maintenance Gardens Fencing Stump Grinding
Experts in all aspects of TREE SURGERY, HEDGECUTTING & STUMP REMOVAL
Garden & Property Maintenance
Call For
A Free cooperg685@gmail.com
Quote
07754 821 232
NPTC qualified & fully insured No job too small, Friendly, personal advice and free quotations. Make a wise choice and call David Merefield today on 01747 850906 / 07966 522361
HEDGE CUTTING AND GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE. Call David on: 07786-658708 GREENHOUSES Supplied/Erected Alloy Twelve Colours Spares-Repairs-Glass Chris Abrams 01258-452632
M & A J Landscaping ~ Fencing ~ Walling ~ Patios/Steps ~ Concreting/Tarmac ~ Tree work ~ Garden maintenance malcgin@hotmail.com 07399-521377
Tree Surgery & Garden Maintenance
Hedge Cutting, Tree Shaping/ Pruning, Felling, Tree Removal & General Maintenance
07398222325
vincentandsontreeservices@gmail.com
EX-DISPLAY SHEDS, Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195 TOOLS WANTED. Cash waiting. 01747 416022 HANDYMAN SERVICES Available. Call Gavin. Tel: 07495-892240 SELF DRIVE DIGGER AND DUMPER HIRE 01258 861647 MAN WITH MICRO-DIGGER & 1.5TON DIGGER, stump grinder, Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience Contact Ken 07882 441873 / 01963 32034
ASBESTOS REMOVAL Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620
PETER PORT UPHOLSTERY A Local Family Run Business based in Shaftesbury, Offering awide range of services including foam cut to size and Re-stuffing of feather cushions. 01747-228384 Peterportupholstery@googlemail.com. MADE TO MEASURE BLINDS & CURTAINS CARPETS & VINYL FLOORING
VIEW OUR NEW WEBSITE – www.sewards-blinds.co.uk Come & visit our showroom:
Unit 2, Old Market Centre, Station Road, Gillingham, SP8 4QQ
CONTACT US ON: 01747 708406
FOR MORE INFORMATION
(Established 1997)
Tree Surgeons TREE WORK
Felling Section felling Pruning/shaping Hedge cutting Scrub clearance Stump grinding Planting £10M public liability insurance
HARDWOOD LOGS AND WOODCHIP FOR SALE
ASH DIE BACK SPECIALISTS LANDSCAPING
Fencing Patios Sleeper walls All hard landscaping
Vale Tree Surgeons Limited www.valetreesurgeons.com Tel: 01747 228484 Mob: 07770 833734
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Home & Garden
blackmorevale.net JACKS AFFORDABLE TREE CARE 07936-498493 FOREVER-GREEN LANDSCAPES. Garden maintenance, landscaping & fencing. Call Matt 07885-586716
OUTDOORS
55
DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING www.yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123 / 07751 278363 HEDGE CUTTING AND LAWN MOWING SERVICES, ShaftesburyBlandford & local villages. Please call Trevor 07970012130
Book online: blackmorevale.net Email: adverts@blackmorevale.net LOGS WONDER WOOD. Halfload £110, Full-load £200. Text or Call: 07847-659881
BLACKMORE VALE LOG SPLITTING - Your local mobile service 07760 469411
SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS £200 transit load £110 half load 01258-880892 07980-036250
SEASONAL LOGS. BARN DRY. Mainly Ash. 20 miles radius of Sherborne. Call- 01935 815534.
GOOD QUALITY SEASONED HARDWOOD for sale Barn-stored Any size of load. If you want anymore help contact Andy 07773-254174
LOGS R US Tipper Load £200 Half Tipper Load £100 dumpy bag £90 All hardwood 07790 404593 01258 818081
JAMES AYRES TREE CARE Specialist Tree Workers All kinds of trees expertly felled, topped and pruned. Hedge cutting. All rubbish cleared. Licensed waste carrier. Fully insured. Tel: 01747 850129 Mob: 07951 284639
LOGS FOR SALE transit tipper load Half transit tipper load Dumpy bag (Delivered FREE in and around Sherborne) TEL: 07450-435993 or 07846-345294
SEASONED HARD WOOD LOGS. £30 per box, if collected or +£5 a box for delivery. in postcode areas DT9 & DT10. C80 logs per box. Box measures 80cmx60cmx60cm. Kindling £2.50 per bag. Tel: 07765-378980
LES BENHAM
Advertising made
TREES R US DORSET Hedges, Patios, Turf & Fencing call Peter 07976-667130
WELL ROTTED HORSE MANURE £60.00 a transit load. Contact Roger on 07885 826396 or 01202 826502
Professional Tree Surgeons Across Somerset and Dorset 24/7 Emergency call outs Free Quotes • Fully Insured Tree Surgery- Tree removal Tree Felling-Stump Grinding All aspects of Tree Surgery We provide a wide range of tree maintenance services for properties across the region, For more information, please get in touch. Tel: 07849-571742 info@billittslandscapes.co.uk
L.DAVIS AND SONS Fencing, and garden design Concrete bases, patios, gravel, garden clearance and much more. We also deliver compost, pots, bark, logs and other gardening products. 01458-241230 or 07950-261510
Garden Property Maintenance All Hedge/tree work/rubbish clearance Gravel Driveways/Pressure Washing Patio and Fencing Work Fully Insured/Free Quotes 01258 458849/07788 907343 lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk / check a trade
GARDEN SERVICES Dorset Gardens of Steve Manuel Do you want your garden to look gorgeous and vibrant? Contact Dorset Garden Services for expert garden maintenance services at competitive prices.
07814064266
www.dorsetgardenservicesstevemanuel.co.uk sjmanuel@btinternet.com 1 Green Lane, Crossways, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8BP
simple
01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net
SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS Small and Large Loads Tel: 07973 871708 Evenings: 01935 825506
LOGS FOR SALE
Seasoned, dry, mixed hardwood logs delivered to your doorstep! Sourced from sustainable local forest.
£95 per aggregate bag (85 x 85 x 85cm) Call to arrange your delivery: 01794 500655 or 07833 778306, email ricknewforest@gmail.com Based in Cranborne, Dorset. Free Delivery within 15 miles.
RIVERSIDE LOGS www.riversidelogs.co.uk
56
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Local Services
blackmorevale.net
ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL BAILEY & SUN LTD. Groundwork, man and machine hire. Footings, ditchings, driveways, new build, drainage, extensions plus lots more. Call for a quote. 07546-762236. sun@baileyandsun.co.uk. •General building •Extensions/Renovations •Loft conversions •Oak frame buildings •Groundwork/Landscaping •All your property needs
Mobile: 07979 527379 | Email: alanlewisaml@aol.com
New electrical installations Electrical rewires
Electrical fault finding
Electric heating installations
Domestic and commercial EICRS
SW BUILDING & RENOVATIONS LTD. All aspects of building and plumbing catered for. Tel: 07970 437786 e: swbuildandrenovation@gmail.com
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
T F PLANT
Sand, gravel, cement and topsoil supplied
Trade & DIY. Supplied loose or collected. Small or large loads also bulk bag materials & small handy bags. Muck-away service of inert materials Trusted family-run business, ring for enquiries
01747 826107
TF Plant, 8 Brickfields Industrial Estate, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4JL
PAT testing
Tel 01747 822604
office@cliffordtshean.co.uk www.cliffordtshean.co.uk
Bryan G Paulley Ltd Oil Tank Services Domestic & Commercial
REPLACEMENT TANKS INSTALLATIONS RE-SITING TEMPORARY TANKS EMERGENCY PUMP OUTS BUNDED /SINGLE SKIN METAL TANKS/FUEL STATIONS ABOVE GROUND OR BELOW MOLING SERVICE FOR BELOW GROUND UTILITIES COMMERCIAL BOILER REMOVAL
CALL NOW FOR YOUR PERSONAL QUOTATION
Tel: 01963 363870
24hr Emergency, Leaking Tanks or Oil Spills 07836 502683
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
57
Local Services
blackmorevale.net
ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL G ROSE PLASTERING. For all your Plastering needs Experienced and reliable Phone Gavin 07766-243762 Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
L R MASONRY GENERAL BUILDER, Stone work, Brick work 07971-982565 llewie30roberts@gmail.com ALL IRONWORK. Handrails.Gates. Railings. Repairs. Restoration. 01258 880301
B.LUCAS
07346 814585 FULLY INSURED
General builder
Limited Fully Insured, Free Survey Failed Double Glazed Units UPVC Windows and Doors Shower Screens, Balustrades T: 01747 631899 / 07708 180306 e: shaftesburyglass@gmail.com w: www.shaftesburyglass.co.uk
Advertising made
Providing reputable electrical services for over 30 years. Prompt service at reasonable rates.
01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net
Extensions, Renovations, Alterations, New Build, Plastering, Floor and Wall Tiling, Brickwork, Blockwork, Stonework and Patios, Fencing and Decorating.
FREE estimates 07809 362919
ELECTRICIAN
Shaftesbury Based.
8am - 8pm
Call Alan: 07442 026385 Email: alanaac1@aol.com
TRADITIONAL BUILDING & RESTORATION Traditional builders specialising in older and listed properties
• External & internal lime works, pointing & rendering • Full restoration service • Bespoke extensions, disabled & granny annex conversions - from planning to completion
DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL WORKS ADDITIONAL SOCKET TO FULL REWIRE PROUDLY SERVING RENOVATION TEMPLECOMBE, WINCANTON, SHERBORNE NEW BUILD AND SURROUNDING AREAS FAMILY BUSINESS • COMPETETIVE RATES
25+ Years Experience, City & Guilds Qualified
simple
ELECTRICAL AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES LIMITED
Call Dave Welsh 07492181788 or 07838654468 www.repointdorset.co.uk tradbuildrest@gmail.com
• Cob work - new & repairs • Oak timber framining
Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services
CALL IAN ON:
FULLY QUALIFIED
COVERING ALL ASPECTS OF BUILDING: New Builds | Extensions | Renovations Brickwork | Stonework | Carpentry Barn & Loft Conversions | Landscaping
30+ YEARS EXPERIENCE 07588804253 | 07791432215 Elevatebuild@outlook.com
Book online: blackmorevale.net
J&C Handyman Services
Plumbing Door hanging & skirting boards Painting & decorating and facia clearing Shed erecting & repairs Guttering and replacement Flat pack furniture Fencing Shelves & curtain rails Pointing etc... No job too small. Please call with your requirements.
01963 364457 07368 516658 dorsethandyman26@gmail.com www.jchandymanservices.com
58
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Local Services
blackmorevale.net
ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL
CHIMNEYS
NEIL PIERCY PLASTERING ALL TYPES OF PLASTERING, FLOOR SCREEDING & RENDERING. WINCANTON & 20 MILE RADIUS. HELPFUL ADVICE & FREE QUOTATIONS CALL NEIL: 07974-185923 or 07811-211586 ASA ARCHITECTS. All drawings for planning and construction. 07770 421624. Free consultation Based in Shaftesbury. Works throughout Dorset. www.asa-architect.co.uk. andystrange@btinternet.com
Architectural Services Planning & Building Applications for New Build, Extensions and Conversions
01747 822162
Our advice is always free
enquiries@bell-architectural.co.uk The New
Blackmore Vale
Magazine
SOLID FUEL INSTALLATIONS LTD
Accredited installers of Wood burning & Multi fuel stoves, Chimney liners, twin wall flues, fireplace conversions, replacement hearths, chimney restoration & rebuilding, dealing with water ingress, cowlings, bird guards. Fully Insured, long term established.
01749 677440 – 07921074602- solidfuel3@aol.com www.solidfuelinstallationsltd.co.uk
BLACKMORE VALE
JOBS GROUP NOW ON Facebook
Book online: blackmorevale.net
BOOKKEEPING
CLARE KAYE BOOKKEEPING
Advertising made
Local AAT Licensed & Insured Bookkeeper
simple
Please contact clare.kaye@outlook.com or call: 07817 781467
01963 400186
For MTD Compliance, VAT & Tax Returns for Sole Traders and Small Companies
adverts@blackmorevale.net
BUSINESS
O NE D EG R E E BUSI N ES S COACHIN G Are you running your business or is it running you? Tired of working all hours, first into the office and last out? Working weekends and no time for your family? Haven’t had a holiday for ages? Well it won’t change unless YOU make a change. Ready to take back control of your business? Ring Ring Richard on 07870 640890 today to book your free introductory session and discover how you can move forward with greater clarity, confidence and control.
onedegreebusinesscoaching
Wood Burning Stoves Installed
False Fireplaces & Media Walls
Chimney leaks, Repairs, Rebuilds and Removals
Twin-Wall Chimney Systems
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Local Services
blackmorevale.net
CHIMNEYS STEVE ADAMS CHIMNEY SWEEPING HETAS registered woodburner and flue installer. Birdguards and cowls 07932 655267
NACS certificates issued Chimneys and Flues Extremely clean service Fully insured (£5m) CCTV
CLEANING
K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush & vacuum. APICS registered 01963 370038
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
Smokin Nicely Chimney Sweeps
59
Martin Simmonds Chimney Sweep Manual and Power Sweeping,
Manual and Power Sweeping, Stove Servicing and Maintenance, Camera Inspections, 07368 Property 250305/01747 590799 Maintenance. Stove Servicing and Maintenance,
Camera Inspections, Property Maintenance
01258 455251
Tel: smokin.nicely@hotmail.co.uk smokinnicely.co.uk
NVQ Qualified. APICS Registered
07368 250305 / 01747 590799 Friendly, Reliable Service NVQ Qualified, APICS Registered longthorpeindustries@gmail.com Friendly, Reliable Service
longthorpeindustries@gmail.com
CLASSIFIED
SHINY STOVES OVEN CLEANING
01963 400186
Tel 01935 592461 Mob 07875 272401 www.shinystoves.com
Place your classified advert today
COMPUTERS / Wi-Fi & TECH DEREK ETHERINGTON BSc(Hons). PC/Mac, Repairs, Networks, Websites, Tuition. Free local callout. 07855-287150 01963-362403 www.dcenet.co.uk
Chimney Sweep • Property Maintenance Fireplace & Stove Servicing :01258 455947
COMPUTER MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS Purchase advice, Virus Removal, New PC Setup/Installation, Internet Connection, Upgrades, Computer/Software Tuition Call Gregg on 01963 370713
Joseph Crocker Computers Custom built gaming & office PCs Desktop & laptop repair Help with mobile devices General computer and IT advice
Established in 1978
Ovens,Ranges, Aga’s, etc. Independent Family Run Business Covering The Blackmore Vale Area
NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL 01963 23669 07484 690824
josephcrockercomputers.co.uk
Advertising made
simple 01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net
:phoenixchimneys1@gmail.com
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Get connected. Stay connected. WiFi • Email • FaceTime • WhatsApp Skype • Google • eBay • Amazon Facebook • Twitter • Instagram
R Laptop R Tablet R Smartphone R desktop PC
Your business could be here for as little as £45 per week...
*Based on our fortnightly rate for a 5x2 advert
• Friendly, patient, and knowledgeable help • Keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues for free over the Internet • Sell online easily, quickly and reliably
• Buying advice, setup and installation
I’m Phil Hudson, your local tech expert and trouble-shooter. I’ll come to you and sort things out, at a time that suits you. Or you can drop off your machine at my workshop for quick, efficient care and maintenance.
Call me now on 07805 783147
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Local Services
blackmorevale.net
DECORATION, FLOORING & CARPENTRY GENERAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES, Painting & Decorating, Carpentry, Interior/Exterior. For free quote call Tim 07793 837073
Painting & Decorating Local Quality Painter & Decorator.
35 Years Experience FREE Estimates. No VAT
Call Richard on
Tel: 01258 880670 Mob: 07825512627 ‘Your home in safe and capable hands’
GARETH TANNER G.O.T. DECORATING City and Guilds qualified Interior/exterior Decorating Free Quotes no VAT Tel 07736644452 go. tanner93@gmail.com PAUL WEST DECORATING SERVICES and wall-paper specialist. Also handyman. 35years experience. Free quotes. 07773-459168. paul.west945@gmail.com Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
COUNTRY CARPENTRY Doors, repairs, general maintenance etc Call Nick on 07887 358570
M & M Painting & Decorating. 30 years experience. Fully insured, clean & tidy. References available. FREE no obligation quote. Tel: 07921-783296 / 01305-849380
ITALIAN LANGUAGE LESSONS
LOCKSMITHS & GARAGE DOORS 24/7 Locksmiths & Garage Door Repairs
Italian Courses Classes and private tuition
throughout the year
Dorset com Doors .com - Residential Lockouts - Garage door repair specialists - New garage doors & automation - Lock repair and replacements
07979 978 751 drew@dorsetdoors.com
Contact
CHRISTINE JEWELS
01935 425958
www.italianlanguageservices.co.uk
Find Us Online
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
www.blackmorevale.net
LOCKSMITHS & GARAGE DOORS Somerset, Dorset & Wiltshire
Repairs, Services, Upgrades, Automation & New Door Installations. High quality doors at low prices from a family run business with excellent service! www.grp-garagedoors.co.uk
LES BENHAM PAINTING SERVICES Property Maintenance Domestic/Commercial Inside or Out. Fully Insured/Free Quotes 01258 458849 / 07788 907343 lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk / check a trade
CAMILLE ELIZABETH PAINTER AND DECORATOR
DUST FREE SANDING SYSTEM Fully Qualified - 20+ Years Experience camillepainting1@gmail.com | 07759 644755
Contact us for a free quote!
Tel 07969443979
Sectional Doors / Roller Doors / Up and Over Side Hinged / Personnel Doors Spares & Accessories Installation / Servicing Automation / 2 into 1 Conversions Insulated Garage Doors Call 01963 363782 or 01258 472830 www.dorsetgaragedoors.co.uk
Advertising made
simple
01963 400186 | adverts@blackmorevale.net
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Local Services
blackmorevale.net
MUSIC PIANO LESSONS. Experienced teacher. All ages and abilities. weds/ Thurs on grand piano. Hazelbury Bryan. Call/Text Tiff 07757-813958 PIANO TUNING, repairs, sales of reconditioned pianos.Julian Phillips BA CGLI. 01258 471194
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PEST CONTROL
PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE
SPECTRUM PEST CONTROL
D&T Plumbing and Heating
Wasps, Rodents, and all other pests humanely dealt with. All forms of bird and rodent proofing undertaken. Technician. Member of the British Pest Control Association T: 01258 721462 M: 07379 405080
Reliable, professional service for all your plumbing & heating needs.
01747 854887 07525 755696
•
Bath/shower room design & installation • Wall and Floor Tiling • Prompt plumbing solutions 07884 946219 / 01258 820897
PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE
MJ HPPS LTD Plumbing and Heating Contractors
General Plumbing Oil/Natural Gas/LPG Installations Bathroom and Kitchen Installations New Boilers and Cylinders Underfloor Heating & Renewables Landlord Safety Certificates All workmanship guaranteed, along with manufacturers’ warranties.
Office: 01747 829222 Mobile: 07900916810 Email: mike@mjheat.co.uk
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*Based on our fortnightly rate for a 5x2 advert
FOR ALL YOUR DRAINAGE NEEDS
• Blocked Drains • Drain Repair/Relining • CCTV Surveys for Drains • Drainage Investigation • Septic Tank Installation/Repair • Sewage Treatment Plant Installations/ Services 24 HOUR DRAIN CLEARANCE Office: 01747 859203 Mobile: 07453 319391 Email: Info@wefix-drains.co.uk
The New Blackmore Vale Magazine DEADLINES
Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday. Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Local Services PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE
blackmorevale.net
PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE
ABBEY DRAINAGE P L U M B I N G & H E AT I N G
Professional | Trusted | Reliable
• Oil and Gas Heating Installations • Boiler Replacement and Servicing • Landlord’s Gas Safety • Bespoke Plumbing and Bathroom Design okefordheating@yahoo.co.uk
UNBLOCKING DRAINS
Sinks • Toilets • Sewers • Downpipe • Installation of new drains • Manholes and gully’s Repairs to existing drains • CCTV Surveys • HP Jetting No dig Relining NO CALL OUT CHARGE
Call David: 01747 640188 07587 238563
Mobile: 07971 865496
ROOFING
Septic Tanks, Treatment Plants & Soakaways Problems with your sewage system? Need to replace your septic tank?
Speak to your local experts 01747 823731 or 07970 484890
Established 1980
All Aspects Of Roofing Undertaken
Based in Wincanton
QUALITY ROOFING! Strip and retile old renovation, repointing and rebuild chimneys, lead works, gutters and facias, torch on flat roofing and repairs. No VAT! Contact Simon at 07745-625617
Contact Chris
valesideroofing@hotmail.com Find us on
Tom the Roofer All Roofing Services & Repairs
01747 854887 07525 755696
www.dorsettreatmentplants.co.uk
INTRODUCE YOUR
BUSINESS TO
90,000 READERS
Advertising made simple 01963 400186 adverts@blackmorevale.net
• Felt Roofing Specialist • Tiling, Slating and UPVC • Velux Windows • No Job Too Small • Insurance Work • Leadwork Friendly Service Free Estimates Mobile 07973 248319 scott@scottmilesroofing.co.uk
CHRIS LANGLEY FLAT ROOFING BLANDFORD Specialist in Hi-performance felt & GRP. All of our work is GUARANTEED. All types of roofing professionally carried out. PERSONAL SUPERVISION OF ALL ORDERS.
FREE D AN QUOTESATES ESTIM
01258-450879 | 07855-402799 Clangley12@aol.com
Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Local Services
blackmorevale.net
STAIRLIFTS
TUITION MATHEMATICS TUITION: Very successful and experienced Maths teacher. Key Stage2, GCSE, A Level. Private tuition at your home. 07929-053985
S A L E S / R E N TA L S • I N S TA L L AT I O N S E R V I C I N G • R E PA I R
WASTE & HOUSE CLEARANCE SKIP HIRE ALTERNATIVE We do all the Work! Please call Paul on 01258 440838 or 07853 275379
Rob’s Clearance • • House, shed, and site clearance Rubbish removed
• Recycling carried out • Good/interesting items bought for cash • Friendly and reliable
01747 839751 or 07956 414896
The New Blackmore Vale Magazine For honest, independent advice, get in touch:
01749 346 900 / 01803 678 073 www.suttonsstairlifts.co.uk
Covering Bath, Bristol, Somerset, Wiltshire, Dorset and Devon
DEADLINES
Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday.
TARMAC / SURFACING
Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.
Book online: blackmorevale.net
WASTE & HOUSE CLEARANCE
HOUSE CLEARANCE Plus Sheds, Attics, Garages & Gardens Quality Items Offset Registered Waste Carrier
-MACHINE OR HAND LAY -OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE -LOCAL AUTHORITY APPROVED -PRIVATE & COMMERCIAL WORKS UNDERTAKEN -ALL ASPECTS OF SURFACING, ROADS, DRIVES, FOOTPATHS & DROP KERBS CONTACT US FOR A FREE QUOTE ON 01747 820234 OR EMAIL INFO@CGSURFACING.CO.UK C&G SURFACING LTD, THE DEPOT, LONGCROSS, ZEALS
Tel: 01258 440838 or 07853 275379 enquiries@back2market.com www.
.com
WINDOWS & DOORS BLACKMORE WINDOWS AND DOORS. Locally based company in Stalbridge with 25 years experience. All your window and door needs undertaken, from repairs to replacement. Contact Terry on 07514224712 or find me on Facebook and WhatsApp. FREE QUOTATIONS.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Announcements IN MEMORIAM REGINALD LEGG A year has passed and I love and miss you so much, Eileen x
PUBLIC NOTICES FIRST-VIEW STOURHEAD, TO OUR ARTISTS, Any work not collected by 13/11/2026 will be donated to a charity shop ROSEMARY ANN WALSH Deceased Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of The Gate House, St. Nicholas Court, The Cross, Child Okeford, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8ED, who died on 15/07/2026, must send written details to the address below by 07/01/2027, after which the Estate will be distributed with regard only to claims and interests notified. Farnfields Solicitors, 4 Church Lane, Shaftesbury, SP7 8JT. Ref: JCC93684-0001 JUNE MARGARET DUNN Deceased Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone with a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of 19 River Lane, Charlton Marshall, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 9NZ, who died on 01/07/2026, must send written details to the address below by 07/01/2027, after which the Estate will be distributed with regard only to claims and interests notified. Humphries Kirk LLP, Glebe House, North Street, Wareham, BH20 4AN. Ref: MDL/297729
Minibus Drivers We are looking for some volunteer minibus drivers to join our team. If you hold a D1 licence and would like to help us provide much needed transport for the elderly, disabled and learning disabled in Sherborne and the surrounding area, please get in touch.
blackmorevale.net
PUBLIC NOTICES Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence Systematic Vehicle Movements Ltd of 88 Kingfisher Drive, Yeovil, BA22 8GG is applying for a licence to use Henstridge Airfield, The Marsh, Henstridge, Templecombe BA8 0TN as an operating centre for 6 goods vehicles. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE stating their reasons within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A guide to making representations is available at www.gov.uk/object-hgv-operator-licence.
Goods Vehicle Operators License. Templar Transport Ltd trading as Templar Transport Ltd of Rivers Meet, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4AA is applying to change an existing license as follows - to add an operating centre to keep 25 goods vehicles and 35 trailers at The Marsh, Henstridge Airfield, Henstridge, BA8 0TN. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe there use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE, stating their reasons within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A guide to making representation is available at www.gov.uk/object-hgv operator-license.
Find Us Online
www.blackmorevale.net
DEATHS
E: sherbornevoluntaryambulance@gmail.com M: 07947 620378
90,000 readers could be looking at your advert right now
01963 400186 | adverts@blackmorevale.net
HANNAH CHRISTENSEN Passed away unexpectedly at home on 10th October 2026 aged 76 years. Hannah will be dearly missed by all who knew her. A service will be held at Salisbury crematorium on Thursday 12th November at 12 noon. Family flowers only please but donations if desired to Shaftesbury Abbey may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
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Announcements
blackmorevale.net
DEATHS ELIZABETH MAY BRAKE (BETTY)
Judith Miller
Passed away 6 November 2021 and reunited in eternal rest with husband Albert. Treasured and loving memories of a very dear Mum, Nannie and Great Grandma, so sadly missed. Always in our thoughts. With love from Jayne, Susanne & Valerie, and all the family
of Ludbourne Hall, Sherborne. Died suddenly and peacefully on Wednesday 21 October, aged 88. Wife of Gerald, mother of Susan and Clare, and grandmother of Pierre, Julien, Elliott, Sophie and Eloise. Private family funeral
Brian (Bert) Thick MICHAEL HULL Sadly passed away on 15th October, aged 92. Dearly loved husband of the late Iris, father to Caroline, Richard, Sheena and Quinton, Grandfather and Great Grandfather. A funeral service was held on Thursday 5th November. The family wishes to thank everyone for their kind messages and support at this difficult time. Donations, if desired, made payable to Alzheimer’s Society. C/o F Curtis & Son Funeral Directors, Warminster.
Brian passed away peacefully at Salisbury district hospital On the 28th October 2026 aged 73 years. A private cremation will take place. A celebration of Brian’s life will be organised soon, at a Venue to be advised later and Brian’s many friends will be notified
Brian Roy Crispin STREET Aged 92
WHITE Emily Jean Passed away peacefully at Castleman House, Blandford on the 12th October 2026. Aged 99 ½ years. Loving Wife, Mum, Granny and Great Granny. Jean will be missed by all who knew her. Funeral Service to be held at St. Rumbold’s Church, Pentridge on Tuesday 10th November at 12:30pm. Family Flowers only by request. Donations in memory of Jean are for Weldmar Hospicecare, and may be made online via MuchLoved by visiting www.close-funeral.co.uk
JONES Derek Aged 89, sadly passed away at Dorset County Hospital 11th October 2026. Beloved, husband to Eveline. Much loved Dad to Suzanne, Paul & Christopher. Dearly loved by his Grandchildren, Great Grandchild and extended family and friends. A quiet, gentle man that has touched the lives of many. Derek’s funeral will be held Tuesday 10th November, 12 noon at Yeovil Crematorium. Donations welcome to British Heart Foundation c/o Woods & Tapper Funeral Services, 6 Albert Road, Dorchester, DT1 1SF or by visiting www.tapperfuneralservice.co.uk/woods. Casual dress code and no expectation to wear black.
Advertising made
simple
01963 400186 | adverts@blackmorevale.net
Passed away peacefully on 16th October at Potter House, Yeovil. Service & burial at Wimborne Woodland Burial Ground on 23/11/26 at 12 noon, Donations to Cancer Research in lieu of flowers please
Bailey, Chris Peacefully on 15th October 2026 aged 84 years. Formerly of Stalbridge. Much loved husband of Wendy, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Friend and tutor to many. Funeral service will take place at 12noon on Monday 16th November at Poole Crematorium. Family flowers only. Donations if desired for RNLI may be made online by visiting www.grassby-funeral.co.uk. All enquiries to Grassby Funeral Service. Tel. 01305 262338. No black ties please
BASHFORD Barry Raymond Ernest - ‘Bubs’ Peacefully on 25th October 2026 at The Malthouse Care Home, aged 87 years, of Gillingham. Beloved husband of the late Janet. Much loved dad to Janice, Bridget and Wendy. Loving grandad, great grandad and brother. A dear friend to many, who will be dearly missed. Funeral service at St. Mary’s Church Gillingham on Wednesday, 18th November at 12.30pm, followed by interment. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired, in memory of Bubs for British Heart Foundation can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Announcements DEATHS June Pitman Our Dear Mum passed away peacefully at Whitecliffe House Nursing home on Sunday 25th October, aged 98. Beloved wife of the late Doug ,and dearly loved Mum to Sheridan, Anne and David. Also, a wonderful “Nanny” to her Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. She will be sadly missed. Family flowers only, but any donations in memory of June may be made to the British Heart Foundation. Funeral date to be arranged.
CANDLISH – Raymond Hiscox (Ray) Passed away on 18th October 2026, aged 82 years. Much-loved father of Josephine; grandpa of Amelie and Evie and brother of Graham. Sadly missed by his extended family and friends. The funeral service will take place at Yeovil Crematorium, Bunford Lane, Yeovil, BA20 2EJ, on Tuesday 17th November at 11.20am, followed by a celebration of Ray’s life at The Grange at Oborne, Sherborne, DT9 4LA. All who knew Ray are warmly welcome to attend. No flowers, please. Donations in lieu, if desired, to Tall Ships Youth Trust and Action Aid. All enquiries to A. J. Wakely & Sons, Sherborne
Ronald Clarke “RON” On 23rd October 2026, Ron passed away doing what he loved, aged 73 years of Gillingham. Who will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Funeral service takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Tuesday 17th November at 12 noon. Family flowers only, Donations if desired, to the Friends of King Alfred Buses may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
WOODS & TAPPER FUNERAL SERVICE Just want a private family funeral? Many people choose to invite just family members to a funeral. Our funeral homes have ceremony halls that are ideal for small and intimate gatherings. Our ceremony halls are light and modern with comfortable seating, and have no time restrictions on their use.
Proudly serving your local community
01747 860 361
Water Street, Mere, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6DZ
Call us for immediate support, advice, or to find out more about our prepaid funeral plans. We are here to help 24 hours a day. "
www.lchillandsonfuneraldirectors.co.uk
@
01305 250425
or visit www.woodsfuneralservices.co.uk
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Bracher Brothers A Dignity Funeral Director
Independent Family Funeral Directors We've provided compassionate and dignified funeral services for over 100 years together.
Proudly serving our community for generations Whether you’re planning something simple, a grand celebration of life or a traditional service, we’re here to support you.
Direct Cremation
Bespoke Cremations & Burials Sherborne:
01935 816817
Pre-Payment Scheme Available Wincanton:
01963 31310
We’re always here to help. Our teams are available 24 hours a day: Gillingham: 01747 898 263 Bracher House, Newbury, SP8 4QL
www.ajwakely.com
Sherborne: 01935 804 911 Newell, DT9 4EZ
Still a family run business, serving Dorset communities since 1861 Colin J. Close Funeral Service Peel Close, BLANDFORD FORUM Tel: (01258) 453133 www.close-funeral.co.uk
Grassby & Close Funeral Service Innes Ct, STURMINSTER NEWTON Tel: (01258) 471024 www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk
Grassby Funeral Service 27a High Street, SHAFTESBURY
Tel: (01747) 440815 www.grassbyshaftesbury-funeral.co.uk
• Service Chapels • Direct Funerals • Memorial Masons • Funeral Plans
INDEPENDENT FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS
When your family suffers the loss of a loved one, we are here to support, guide and reassure you every step of the way Call Teresa or Daniel on Sherborne
01935 812647 100 Lenthay Road, Sherborne, DT9 6AG
Sparkford
01963 850165 Woodside Court Sparkford BA22 7LH
Email: info@wsbrister.com
www.wsbrister.com
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Recruitment LOCAL PRIVATE ESTATE looking for ad-hoc driver / on-demand chauffeur Charlton Musgrove area. Tel: 07779-554662
EXPERIENCED GROUNDWORKERS required for a project in Mere, Wiltshire. Please call Steve on 07818 500604
blackmorevale.net/jobs CARER PART-TIME, busy household, driver essential. Fovant 07790 524 157 CHRISTMAS POULTRY PROCESSORS wanted between Wincanton & Bruton. 07812-009364 PART-TIME HELP REQUIRED. AGRICULTURAL. Must be able to drive. Tel: 01258-880892 or 07980-036250
Sales Intern/Graduate Suitable for a Business Studies Undergraduate looking for a placement year or recent graduate looking for their first role working for a North Dorset Electronics Company. Full-time position on initial 12 months fixed term contract Located in North Dorset Apply in writing with CV and covering letter to: sysdevgradsdorset@protonmail.com
The New
Blackmore Vale
Magazine
BLACKMORE VALE
JOBS GROUP NOW ON Facebook
‘Many employers falling short’ on staff health NEARLY one in three employees in the south west do not clearly feel supported by their employer during periods of work-related stress or illness. That is according to research commissioned by employee health assessment provider Verve Healthcare. The study, which surveyed 2,000 employees and 500 human resources leaders and business managers across the UK, highlights both progress and challenges in how organisations respond to workplace health. Some 57% of people in the south west say they feel supported when experiencing workplace health challenges. But with 15% of employees feeling unsupported and a further 15% unsure, nearly a third
do not report clear or consistent support when facing stress and health issues. Based on an estimated 2.8 million employees in the south west, this suggests that about 840,000 people may not feel they receive reliable help when they need it. Encouragingly, almost a quarter (23%) of employers in the broader south region claim they intervene early, before absence occurs. However, 7% admit to not stepping in to support their workforce at all, reinforcing concerns that support is inconsistent. The data suggests that while many organisations aim to prevent issues from escalating, Verve warns that employees must feel this support.
SITUATIONS WANTED CLEANING SERVICES OFFERED. Please ring 07396-949160
The CCNL Partnership is looking to appoint a new independent Chairman The primary purpose of Cranborne Chase National Landscape (CCNL) is to ‘conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area’. The Cranborne Chase NL comprises 983sq kms (380 sq mls) covering parts of Wiltshire, Dorset, Hampshire and Somerset, is the 6th largest in the country. (see www.cranbornechase.org.uk for more information) An enthusiastic individual is sought to chair the Partnership with knowledge and/or experience and, most importantly, a genuine interest in some of the following: landscape, the natural and historic environment, rural communities and economy, farming, forestry, planning, rural tourism and volunteering. This is an unpaid position with an annual honorarium and reasonable mileage. Please contact the CCNL Director for a Chairman’s brief and/or an informal discussion on the role. lindanunn@cranbornechase.org.uk | 07377 701271 Expressions of interest should be made to the CCNL Director by 5pm on Sunday 29th November 2026.
RETIRED HGV DRIVER looking for part time driving. job car or van and some odd jobbing 2 to 3 days a week. email p2nwh@hotmail.co.uk or phone: 078901 87535
We are seeking a highly competent and self-motivated HGV Mechanic to join our operations team. Working with a mixed fleet of HGVs, 3.5t vans and cars, you will take responsibility for ensuring our vehicles remain safe, reliable and compliant. • Carry out PMI inspections, scheduled servicing and reactive repairs • Diagnose mechanical and electrical issues with accuracy and efficiency • Perform bodywork repairs, fibreglass repairs and touch-up painting • Complete small vehicle checks and repairs across the mixed fleet • Undertake welding tasks and tyre recutting where required • Present vehicles for MOT, ensuring all preparation is completed • Work independently, maintaining high standards of workmanship and safety
About you: • Fully competent mechanic with strong diagnostic ability • Confident working alone and managing your workload • Able to repair, replace and resolve issues in a timely, methodical manner • Must hold a Class 1 (C+E) licence • Reliable, proactive and committed to maintaining fleet quality
Hours & Pay • Highly Competitive • Full time
To apply, please send your CV to transport@armishaws.com
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Food & Drink
blackmorevale.net
50 years of health food shop
SPILL the Beans, Dorset’s first independent refill health food shop – will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a series of special events. The store, Wimborne’s only independent health food shop, is celebrating the birthday this month with a programme of talks and tastings, as well as the launch of a new edition of its cookbook. Spill the Beans’ story began when Maggie and Eric Drennan took a summer job in London after finishing teacher training in the city. Armed with a box of apricots, honey and muesli, they set up a market stall and sold out on their first day. Originally from Blandford, the couple returned to Dorset and found wholefoods were almost impossible to buy locally.
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They began trading at markets across the region, including Lymington, Weymouth, Dorchester, Wareham and Wimborne, gradually expanding their range of products as they went. Over the ensuing five decades, Spill the Beans has built a reputation for practical knowledge and trusted advice. Its team can connect customers with highly qualified nutritionists and therapists, including practitioners who have worked in the shop because they believe in its approach. Today, Joe Drennan has managed Spill the Beans for 10 years and four generations of the Drennan family are involved, with Joe’s nieces, Evie and Sam, now working as Saturday assistants, just like Joe did in his early days. The wider team – known affectionately as the ‘Beanies’ – shares the family’s commitment to quality natural produce ethically grown and fairly traded.
aditional village pub r t A i
n the
01963 220 317 info@thequeensarms.com www.thequeensarms.com Find us in Corton Denham, just 4 miles from Sherborne
Sit out on our terrace, with views over Somerset and Dorset and try our light lunch menu. Join us for a burger and a pint every Tuesday for £18. Open Seven Days a week for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner from 8 - 11pm.
hea rt o f
Dorset
A pub with warmth & atmosphere We are delighted that our renovation and expansion project has been well received by customers as have our food and beverage offerings. After a very long search, we now have a fully staffed kitchen and offer our full lunch and dinner menu every day from Tuesday lunch until Sunday lunch. We are closed after lunch on Sunday and all day Monday. We offer a wide range of beers, cider, wines and spirits as well as a range of non-alcoholic options.
07783 009402 | email@ploughmanston.com | ploughmanston.com Shaftesbury Road, Manston, Sturminster Newton, Dorset DT10 1HB
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Health & Wellbeing
Too much or not enough?
blackmorevale.net
by Nicole Asghar WHAT happens when we have too much of one thing and not enough of another? And what happens when we can’t tell the difference? Or we haven’t had a chance to stop and think about it – well, perhaps this is the moment. Begin by taking a slow, long breath in through your nose… Pause at the top. Then sigh it out through your mouth… Now see what comes to mind when you ask yourself “what do I have too much of or what feels too much?” Make a mental or physical note. This time, take a breath in and scrunch up all the muscles in your face, tense your shoulders and squeeze your toes – exhale and soften…
Now ask yourself “what do I need more of?” Or better yet, “what do I want to feel more of?” As sentient beings, our day-to-day experiences are shaped by our emotions and nervous system states – therefore, having more choice and influence over how we want to feel can be the difference between living a life we love and living a life that feels arduous, sometimes mundane and often not very fulfilling. I often talk to clients about making space in their lives for the things that help them feel how they actually want to feel, identifying what those things are and diarising them. Without that last step, they become another item on the mental to-do list and are easily forgotten.
Crucially, though, when we repeatedly put off doing things for ourselves, or forget what makes us feel good, we develop an internal belief that our needs aren’t important. For some, it also links to the belief that prioritising yourself is selfindulgent, perhaps even selfish. It took me several years – and several periods of burnout – to realise my needs mattered. Joy, rest, creativity, the freedom that comes from movement and deep connection with others are what I’ve identified as what I want to feel in my life. Before that, I thought work and caring for others were enough fulfilment, mostly because I felt so much of those things in my work. What I was missing was the too much bit – I couldn’t see that doing too much was
overshadowing the benefits of my passion. The joy and creativity of being a therapist starting their own business turned into something that caused too much demand on my nervous system. Too many demands – selfinflicted in my case – and not enough enjoyment and rest. I’d worked it out, now to fix it – simple! Not quite. Sometimes it feels like a work in progress – other times I think I’ve got it sorted. How about you? How easy was it for you to figure out what you have too much of and what you don’t have enough of? n Nicole Asghar is a Dorsetbased therapist and yoga teacher specialising in neurodivergence and burnout recovery. She offers courses and one-to-one therapy online and around Bournemouth. Get in touch via connect@ nicoleasghar.com and www. nicoleasghar.com
by Fiona Chapman IT seems our glorious summer has finally come to an end. It was cold this morning and I thought, too late, that I should be wearing gloves on my morning walk. It is all a bit of a shock, but we have been so incredibly lucky with a long sunny September and October, so we cannot complain. A wonderful second flush of nettles is around now and I met someone in my village who was harvesting them who told me she has always makes nettle soup and loves it. This is just the sort of thing we should be eating.
Warming soups and broths for the cold weather, easy to digest and full of goodness to prepare our bodies for the long winter months. Nettle soup made with onions, garlic, a good stock and celeriac, makes a great, filling lunch or supper. We should also be thinking of keeping the Vitamin D levels up and a good supplement is recommended throughout the winter. I am, as most will know, also a great believer in getting outside every day for a brisk walk – fresh air and exercise is a must in winter. So often it is
better being out in the weather than sitting looking at it, and the sense of satisfaction when you get home, full of fresh air, a bit damp and windblown, is just lovely – also knowing, that if it is awful, you don’t necessarily have to do it again! As the dark nights start closing in, it is very tempting to turn to sweet treats, but this is not what we should be doing. Processed sugar wrecks our blood sugar and gives us highs, followed by huge dips. If we need something sweet, some goji berries or cinnamon is a great alternative. Cinnamon will help balance the blood
sugar, which then controls some of the cravings we have. It can be added to oat milk or tea or coffee, porridge or fruit. It is also very important to keep hydrated at this time of the year. It is so easy to forget to drink water as it gets colder, but it is essential we do, particularly when the heating goes on. I also want to hibernate as it gets darker and there is nothing wrong with slowing down a bit and cuddling up with a good book – and, in my case, a small, hairy dog! n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com)
Staying well as the days draw in
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Health & Wellbeing
blackmorevale.net
Meditations in nature: The hidden colours of the night by Susanna Curtin MY adventure with light begins this evening in my garden, as I watch the rich red leaves of the Virginia creeper that has taken over my house glowing in the late-afternoon sunlight. Backlit against the autumn sky, they are breathtakingly beautiful. Light has fascinated me ever since those long-ago days in the blacked-out science lab at school, when we experimented with beams of light, exploring refraction, reflection and prisms. Recently, I have become particularly fascinated by ultraviolet light. Emitted by the Sun, UV radiation has shorter wavelengths than visible light and is invisible to the human eye. We know about its damaging effects on our skin, but what other wonders might this invisible, high-energy electromagnetic radiation reveal? When certain plants and animals absorb UV light, they can re-emit some of that energy as visible light at longer wavelengths, making them glow in vibrant neon colours when illuminated by a UV torch. This phenomenon is known as biofluorescence. It is quite different from bioluminescence, the chemical process by which living organisms such as glow-worms, fireflies and some plankton produce their own light. Biofluorescence is a fascinating optical phenomenon because it reveals a hidden layer of colour in creatures and plants that otherwise might seem quite ordinary. Scientists have discovered it across a remarkable range of lifeforms from marine creatures and birds to frogs, mammals and plants. Although we know much more about where it occurs, the purpose of these glowing colours remains a mystery. To find out more, I have booked a guided biofluorescence night walk with
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A garden snail and – inset – holly leaves under UV light
the RSPB. Having finished my gardening, I wrap up warm and drive towards the Arne peninsula. My journey is a sheer delight, taking me through fields and villages bathed in the rich reds, oranges and yellows of the setting sun. I love how the late-October countryside takes on a completely different persona as the sun slowly sinks beneath the horizon, the changing light lending a magical quality to the familiar landscape. On arrival, I am equipped with a small UV torch and set free to explore. The intention is not to walk far but to take our time, investigating cracks and crevices, plants, lichens, snails and fungi. In the deepening gloom, small groups gather around their discoveries, their excitement growing with each new find. The first exclamations come from a group beside a stone wall where woodlice abound. Under an ordinary
torch, they look perfectly normal, but under the UV light, one of them glows bright green in places. Wow! Although I think I know this place and its inhabitants well, suddenly I feel like Alice in Wonderland, discovering this hidden world. I turn my attention to the holly leaves, some of which appear strikingly red under the UV torch. Chlorophyll, the green pigment essential to photosynthesis, can fluoresce red when excited by light. The colour I am seeing is not simply the leaf’s ordinary colour revealed in a different light, but a response to the UV illumination. Nearby, the nettle and bramble leaves I find are edged with a delightful kingfisher blue, possibly indicating the presence of a fungal infection. Then I am guided towards some lichen on the bark of a birch tree, glowing a hot magenta. Other lichens on fallen twigs shine in fiery
yellows and oranges. But the most astonishing discoveries, and perhaps the most beautiful, are the snails. These little creatures, so often banished from our gardens, are transformed under UV light. As the evening progresses, more snails emerge from their hiding places. Two species are found here tonight – the common garden snail and the whitelipped snail. Both are extraordinary. The soft flesh of the white-lipped snail glows in vibrant reds and yellows, while the garden snail shines bright green, its mucus trail glows yellow. I find myself looking at these familiar creatures with entirely new eyes. Who would have thought they could be so spectacular? I stop for a while to look up at the sky. Away from the bright artificial lights, the stars appear incredibly vivid and sharp. Cassiopeia, the lazy W, hangs overhead, while a waxing crescent Moon glimmers between the trees as it slowly descends towards the horizon. Tawny owls call from the darkness, reminding us of the other nocturnal creatures that share this woodland. This familiar path has become an entirely different place. Returning to the group, I learn that scientists are investigating whether fluorescence might play a role in camouflage, communication, mate recognition, pollination or foraging in some species. There is still much to discover. Even hedgehogs, amphibians and moths have been found to exhibit forms of fluorescence. As everyone gathers to say goodbye, I make my way back to my car. What an extraordinary evening this has been! I have glimpsed a whole new dimension of nature that has previously passed me by. On my journey home, I vow to invest in a UV torch of my own. Those mild, damp winter evenings in the garden will never seem quite the same again. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin.susanna@gmail.com)
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Motoring
Headlight glare takes its toll THE very vehicle headlights designed to show drivers the road ahead are leaving many others struggling to spot hazards, signs and road markings, as well as making it harder to judge the position, speed and distance of oncoming vehicles, major new RAC research into headlight glare has found. Now the clocks have gone back, drivers are increasingly experiencing the dazzling effect of other vehicles’ headlights. As many as 83% of drivers say they are concerned about the impact glare has on their driving as darkness falls in late afternoon, while three-quarters of those affected by glare (76%) think the problem is getting progressively worse. Among drivers who get dazzled, half (50%) say overly bright headlights make it harder to spot other road hazards, while a similar proportion (49%)
struggle to see road signs and markings. Nearly half (47%) find it difficult to judge the position of oncoming vehicles and four-in-10 (43%) can’t easily judge other vehicles’ speed and distance, while a third (35%) say they get temporarily blinded. Nearly two-in-three (63%) say they find it difficult to see the flashing amber indicators of some oncoming vehicles because their headlights are so bright. And worryingly, one-in-seven (14%) dazzled drivers say they have narrowly avoided a collision. But the consequences of headlight glare extend well beyond the road. While discomfort and a feeling of being less safe behind the wheel are drivers’ chief worries,
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concern about dazzle is causing some people to change their driving behaviour altogether. Of those affected by glare, a fifth (21%) say will drive less now the clocks have gone back as a direct result of being dazzled while 3% say they will stop driving at night altogether. For those who have already given up driving at night or are doing so less, the effects are stark. Three-in-10 (28%) say they see friends less as a result and 20% see family less, while a fifth (21%) report feeling much more isolated. Concerningly, 6% have cancelled medical appointments because of the difficulties they face driving in the dark while the same proportion have postponed them. And glare isn’t just affecting drivers when they’re behind the
blackmorevale.net wheel. More than half (57%) experience dazzle from headlights as pedestrians or wheelchair users, while 20% do so when cycling after dark. And 77% of parents and carers say they are concerned about the safety of their children during the darker months as a direct result of headlights that dazzle. RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: “The shorter days are here, which means millions of drivers will once again have to contend with the unwelcome effects of headlight dazzle. “Our latest figures uncover an uncomfortable irony: the very headlights that illuminate the road for drivers and keep them safe could be doing the polar opposite for others by temporarily blinding them. This is leading to people feeling less confident and safe behind the wheel, and in some cases is stopping them driving in the dark altogether. The impact of this on their lives shouldn’t be underestimated.”
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Motoring
blackmorevale.net
Legends event set to return
A THREE-DAY event filled with supercars and motoring superstars and everything a petrolhead could wish for is returning to Wiltshire next summer. Wilton Legends is set to take place at Wilton House from Friday to Sunday, June 18-20, returning after a successful first event in 2026 – which included an appearance by AC/DC legend Brian Johnson. Johnson, the voice behind AC/DC for some of the band’s most successful periods, met visitors and car fans during last year’s event – and left the scene in a classic car in true rock-star style. The event featured live conversations, curated automotive displays, art and craftsmanship, offering a fresh take on the traditional concours. FORD FIESTA 1.4, 2006, MOT, May ‘27. 2 owners from new. 56k, Ford Service History, Stalbridge, £725. 07966-550081 AUDI A1 SPORT 1.4 TSI 2012 103k drives ok, but noisy transmission CVJs? needs work hence £2,450 Phone 01985 844923 OLD, INTERESTING & CLASSIC CARS wanted pre 1990s Any condition including unfinished projects Cash/ Transfer. Please Phone Paul - 07890 096907
Visitors also enjoyed Hagerty Owners’ Stories, the Castrol Supercar Drive-In, a display of historic racing helmets from the world of Formula 1 – including Sir Jackie Stewart’s helmet signed by every living F1 World Champion over the past 20 years – and opportunities to explore Wilton House and its collections. In 2027, returning for its second year, Wilton Legends organisers said they will build on the success with 100 cars planned for the concourse display, a broader selection of catering and retail offerings, and ‘more chances to discover the people and stories behind automotive history’. Created by the Earl of Pembroke and organised by Hothouse Media, publishers of Octane and Magneto magazines, Wilton Legends offers a ‘distinctive combination of motoring, culture and heritage within the grounds of one of England’s great historic houses’.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Pets
blackmorevale.net
Settling a cat after a move: Helping by Raychel Curson MOVING house can be stressful for everyone involved, but for cats, it can be particularly overwhelming. Cats are creatures of habit who rely heavily on familiar scents and routines to feel secure. When they’re suddenly placed in a new environment, it’s normal for them to feel confused,
anxious or even a little grumpy. The good news is that with patience and the right approach, most cats adjust well to their new surroundings. Start with one safe room WHEN you first arrive, set up a quiet room with everything your cat needs – food, water, litter tray, bed, scratching post and
Eye scratches and ulcers by Lynn Broom BVSc, GPCert(ExAP), AdvDipAAB, MRCVS YOU may know that your pet’s eye has been scratched due to a bramble or a cat fight, but it may not always be obvious that an injury has occurred if, for instance, they have been out in the garden unsupervised. If your pet is holding one eye partly or completely closed, there is increased tear production, the pet is rubbing the eye and it looks different to the other eye then this could be a sign that an injury has occurred. The eye may have a visible
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scratch or abnormal patch on it, and there may be an eyelid injury. As the eye reacts to the injury it will develop oedema around the wound giving a cloudy appearance. Superficial scratches or ulcers in previously normal eyes will often heal if kept lubricated, any secondary infection is controlled and pain relief is provided to stop ongoing damage due to rubbing. Deeper ulcers, ones that have deteriorated over time or ones on eyes that typically do not heal so well, such as in pugs or other brachycephalic breeds, can be difficult to heal, need
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favourite toys. This gives them a smaller, manageable space to explore rather than overwhelming them with the entire house at once. Let them explore at their own pace SOME cats will confidently inspect every corner of their
It may not always be obvious an eye injury has occurred
additional intervention and may even cause the eye to rupture. If the cause of the injury has penetrated right through the cornea it may set up an infection within the eye causing a generalised inflammation and more significant damage. The tip of a thorn or claw may break off within the eye and require surgery to remove it. Diagnosis involves applying a fluorescein stain to the surface of the eye. This is an orange liquid which turns green on contact with tissue and it adheres strongly to damaged superficial corneal tissue. The dye is washed away by tears and, in normal dogs, will appear at both nostrils soon after application. The dye may give a negative result if the scratch is very recent and an ulcer has not yet formed.
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new home within hours, while others may spend days hiding under furniture. Both reactions are completely normal. Avoid forcing interactions or pulling your cat out of hiding spots. Instead, let them build confidence in their own time. If the deepest level of the cornea is involved the centre will not take up stain but it often adheres to the surrounding tissue around the ulcer which is less deep. While ulcers are typically associated with pain, eye conformation or previous injury may reduce pain sensation in the eye making the ulcer’s significance less obvious. This can lead to dangerous progression of the ulcer, deeper penetration of the cornea and eye rupture. Additional techniques may include applying superficial scratches to the surface of the cornea to stimulate blood vessel growth to encourage healing. A temporary ‘bandage’ can be formed by suturing the underneath of the eyelids together to keep the ulcer covered while it heals and conjunctival flaps can be sutured to the front of the eye to form a permanent patch if rupture has occurred or is imminent. For a good outcome, immediate intervention is often needed, treatment should be continued until fully healed and, where necessary, additional techniques must be used to allow healing.
KC REGISTERED golden male working cocker spaniel puppy. Tail docked with vet certificate. Will be microchipped, fantastic pedigree with many F.C.T.H. will make very good working dog £1,200. 07833 679845
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
blackmorevale.net
them feel safe in their new home Keep familiar scents around CATS find comfort in familiar smells. Keeping their bedding, blankets and favourite resting spots unchanged can help them feel more secure. It can also be helpful to gently rub a soft cloth around your cat’s cheeks and place it around the home to spread their scent.
Maintain routine TRY to keep feeding times, play sessions and daily routines as consistent as possible. Predictability helps cats feel safe when everything else around them has changed. Wait before letting them outside IF your cat has outdoor access, keep them indoors for at least
MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION Cats looking for new homes
n Sadie, three years old. Affectionate, gentle girl
The Mid Dorset branch of Cats Protection has a number of cats still needing veterinary care before being homed. The group is also looking for people to foster cats and has other roles available in the branch. To enquire about any of these roles or cats for rehoming, phone 07831 586114.
LOST CATS
FOUND CATS
IF your cat has gone missing, Cats Protection offers practical steps to help bring it home safely. Start by searching your local area thoroughly, checking sheds, garages and outbuildings where it might be hiding. Create posters and share them in your neighbourhood and online communities. Inform local vets and animal rescues in case someone has found your cat. Ensure your cat’s microchip details are up to date, as this can be a vital tool for identification, and update the microchip database to advise your cat is lost. For a detailed guide and additional advice visit the Cats Protection website or call us on 07831 586114.
IF you have found a stray cat, Cats Protection has helpful guidance to ensure the cat gets the care it needs. First, check if it is in distress or injured and contact a vet if necessary. Look for an ID tag or take the cat to a vet to check for a microchip. If the owner cannot be identified, share details about the cat locally via posters, social media and community groups. Cats Protection advises against assuming all stray cats are lost, as some may simply be exploring. For full guidance, visit the Cats Protection website or call us on 07831 586114.
two to three weeks while they settle in. This helps them learn that the new house is home and reduces the risk of them becoming lost. Every cat adjusts at their own pace after a move. With patience, familiar routines and plenty of reassurance, your cat will gradually gain confidence and begin to feel at home.
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Pets
Before long, they’ll be claiming sunny windowsills, demanding dinner on schedule and ruling their new kingdom just as they did the old one. n Raychel Curson BSc (Hons) MA CCAB APBC-CAB FABC ABTC-CAB is owner of Pet Peeves Animal Behaviour & Teaching (email raychel@ petpeevessomerset.co.uk)
Pebbles – a little cat with a lot of love to give but limited time SWEET Pebbles is looking for a very special home where she can enjoy the love and attention she deserves. She has a heart condition and needs daily medication, which she takes happily in a meaty treat or pâté. No-one knows how much time Pebbles has ahead of her, possibly only months, but it is hoped a number of years, and she deserves to spend that time feeling safe, loved and cherished. In return, this gentle little girl will fill someone’s home with purrs, headbutts and affection. We’re hoping to find someone who can look beyond her condition and give this lovely soul the loving home she so deserves.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Sport
blackmorevale.net Youngsters from Bryanston and Bryanston Prep on development programmes with Dorset and Hampshire
Youngsters on cricket fast track
SOME 11 young cricketers from Bryanston and Bryanston Prep are celebrating after securing or retaining places on county cricket development programmes with Dorset and Hampshire. Among the boys, Alfie A-I will train with the Hampshire
SCHOOL SPORT Cricket Academy, while Toby C, Henry C and Charlie C have secured places on Dorset’s Emerging Player Programme (EPP). Bryanston Prep youngsters
Blake H and Ewan B have earned places on Dorset’s Emerging Player Programme, while Flynn M and Archie J have been selected for the Dorset cricket pathway. Among the girls, Martha I has secured places on Hampshire’s Vipers Emerging
Player Programme and the Dorset Women’s team, and Millie H has been selected for Dorset’s Emerging Player Programme. Mia V-E has also earned recognition through Dorset’s Emerging Player Programme and county pathway.
GOT A STORY OR REPORT? Then email sports@blackmorevale.net
Mountain bikers warned over DIY jumps and tracks MOUNTAIN bikers are being urged not to construct their own jumps and tracks in woods in
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Salisbury – because they could put people at risk. Salisbury City Council said a number of ‘unauthorised mountain bike ramps, jumps and tracks’ had appeared at Chiselbury Grove Woodland, off Old Blandford Road. And they urged people to stop the constructions – as they could pose a risk to them and to others using the woodland. “The woodland is a popular place for young people to explore, play and ride bikes, and mountain biking is a fantastic outdoor activity for young people and adults, but these structures are creating serious safety and environmental concerns,” a council spokesperson said. “The structures have often been placed on steep slopes, without any formal safety
assessments. “Even if those who build these structures have the skills to use them safely, others may not, and dog walkers, runners and other visitors could unexpectedly cross a cyclist’s path. “Unlike an official track, the routes are not risk-assessed, clearly marked or designed for emergency access, so an accident could cause serious injury and be difficult for emergency services to reach.” They said trees had also “repeatedly been cut down without permission” to provide materials for the constructions, which was “damaging the woodland and its natural habitat”. “Bringing bladed tools into a public space for this purpose creates an additional concern,” the spokesperson said. The city council, which manages the woodland and has removed ramps and jumps, appealed to those responsible to make contact so the legal position and risks can be explained. “Unfortunately, no one has
come forward,” the spokesperson added. “The substantial construction of some of these structures suggests that adults may also be involved. “We ask everyone involved, whether directly or indirectly, to stop building these unauthorised features. “The woodland already has natural features and obstacles that riders can enjoy responsibly. However, unauthorised construction and damage to trees cannot continue. “The council must keep this shared public space safe and accessible for everyone, and no activity should put other visitors at risk or harm the natural environment. “Please help us protect Chiselbury Grove Woodland. If you are building these structures, please stop. “If you are a parent or guardian, please talk to young people about the risks and the importance of respecting this shared space. Let’s keep the woodland a safe, welcoming and natural place for the whole community to enjoy.”
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Sport
blackmorevale.net
Blandford take five for third win on the bounce
by Paul Cross Blandford & Sturminster HC 5 Winchester 4s 0 FROM the off, it was clear this was going to be a Halloween horror show for Winchester. Arriving with just 10 players, Blandford quickly smelled blood and sunk their teeth into the opposition. Intense pressure from Blandford led to a short corner in the sixth minute. Lee Watkinson’s drag-out was superb, giving captain Matty Lewis the extra half a second he needed to place the ball inside the left post. Two minutes later, James Garrett worked the ball down the right and flashed it across
HOCKEY the D before an untimely deflection tricked a surging Paul, preventing him from treating himself to a goal. The 13th minute proved unlucky for Winchester, as a turnover from their 16 was laid off to Gaz Hardiman, who cooly held the ball and then lifted it into the roof of the net. Four minutes later, Blandford had their third. The home side won a short corner and Tom Tridgell ghosted right and played the ball to Gaz, who struck it off the reverse. Nathan Hertz hit the rebound off the post, but the ball stayed in play and Finn Hardiman
slithered through the Winchester defence and slipped it under the keeper. Finn had his second and Blandford’s fourth in the 21st minute. Matty struck again, picking off an errant Winchester pass and slipping the ball once more to Gaz Hardiman. He drew in the defender, before treating his son, Finn, to a simple tap-in. Despite the score, Winchester gave Blandford a scare when the defence missed one of the visitor’s score of aerials, putting the Winchester striker one-on-one with keeper Clint Thrower, who stayed big, forcing the player wide. James Garrett plunged a dagger into Winchester hearts
Bad day for the Rockies FOOTBALL by Avril Lancaster Shaftesbury 1 Westbury United 4 SHAFTESBURY’S 100% record against the Wiltshire side was lost as Westbury put in a convincing performance to take all three points. In horrendous conditions at Cockrams, the match was fairly even until the 37th minute when Cole Fleming worked his way across Shaftesbury’s box and found Eben MortimerTaylor at the back post to score. Westbury nearly doubled their lead when Leighton Thomas rattled the post. As the first half spilled into injury time, Westbury won a free kick which Rockies debutant Saul Thorpe headed past Oscar Glover into his own net. Jensen Wakefield finished a smart move to put Westbury 3-0 ahead with 68 minutes
Shaftesbury had previously had a 100% record against Westbury
played. Brett Pitman rasped in a Harry Morgan assist for his sixth goal of the season to
reduce arrears, before Bevan Cross found room wide to slot in the fourth, making a miserable day for the Rockies.
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in the 28th minute. The ball came to Matty Lewis on the right-hand side who smashed the ball across the D, where a deflection fell to James, who finished bottom left, to make the score at half-time 5-0. Winchester started the second half like a team possessed, putting Blandford on the back foot. Winchester’s goal seemed charmed and the Blandford forwards cursed as they were unable to extend the first half lead. A Tridgell goal was chalked off due to an errant swing from Watkinson in the build-up. This was followed by a second half sequence in which Blandford hit the post three times in a single play. This frustration culminated in a late green card for Gaz Hardiman and the game ended 5-0 to Blandford, to put them on a three-game winning streak.
GOLF WINCANTON Golf Club results. Monthly Medal, October 24 – 1 Charlie King nett 72, 2 Tommie King nett 77, 3 Steven Ireland nett 80. Seniors Monthly Medal, October 27 – 1 Simon Lenton nett 70 ocb, 2 Chris Dibben nett 70, 3 Jim Stephen nett 73. Seniors Monthly 9 Hole Medal, October 27 – 1 Alan White nett 30, 2 Jon Reed nett 36, 3 Philip Dewar nett 39. Seniors Monthly Stableford, October 29 – 1 Kees Schouten 40, 2 Simon Lenton 38 ocb, 3 Dave Hardiman 38. Seniors Monthly 9 Hole Stableford, October 29 – 1 Keith Williams 21, 2 Jim Bunce 18 ocb, 3 Philip Dewar 18. Monthly Stableford, October 31 – 1 David Amann 43, 2 Terry Ings 41, 3 Nigel Orr 37 ocb, 4 Mike Case 37. 2026 Order of Merit, winner – Charlie King. 1 Charlie King 99, 2 Steven Ireland 94, 3 Mike Case 74.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Field & Stream
blackmorevale.net Birds in a flock of geese change places so that the lead bird takes a turn flying into the headwind and the others in the skein can use some of the slipstream for an easier flight
A bird’s eye view of the wonders of nature by AJ Selby “No bird soars too high if he soars with his own wings,” – William Blake FOLLOWING on from last month’s comments about the anniversary of the Battle of Hastings, we were lucky enough to spend a few days in Rye in East Sussex, not too far from Hastings itself. It’s a fascinating part of the country and Rye has a huge nature reserve on the marshes, which run down to the sea. Nearby is Dungeness, that bleak, almost alien landscape of shingle and emptiness with the power station standing sentinel and looking across the channel to France, almost all-seeing and all-knowing. Standing on the beach at Dungeness I was transfixed by a couple of dozen terns skimming over the water, sometimes plunging into the sea and out again. They are wonderful birds to watch and on that particular day the sea dazzled and shimmered in front of me. Nearby too is Winchelsea, the resting place of Spike Milligan, whose gravestone contains those classic words ‘I told you I was ill’. Back at Rye on the nature reserve is an excellent visitor centre which contains old maps
and photographs of the area from the last 100 years or more with memories of workmen building fortifications, and others harvesting from the sea along the shoreline. One of the maps explains how the port of old Winchelsea was ravaged by a huge storm in 1287 – the mouth of the river Rother in the town had been accumulating shingle but the storm finished it off. At the time it contained dozens of pubs, merchant houses and churches, and was one of the most important ports along the south coast. The storm wiped out the entire settlement and hundreds lost their lives. On the map I looked at a small circle now out in the English Channel with the words ‘Old Winchelsea (drowned)’. Some of the newer photographs in the visitor centre cover the whole area taken from drones and aircraft. I love these pictures, both stills and videos that are the bird’s eye views of what we only see from ground level. Whether it be a tractor and plough with an entourage of gulls, a shepherd and three dogs taking their sheep across the Cumbrian fells or a line of pleasure boats moored along a river at the bottom of a beautiful valley, these aerial snapshots
give you a wonderful perspective of what is going on around you. I have a picture of one at home which is of a dairy herd coming in for milking, and they are exiting a field through a gateway and along a track. There is an inverted ‘V’ shape of cows still in the field moving towards the gate, where they are bunched up awaiting their turn to leave the paddock and there is a thicker but narrower line of cows that have passed through the gate and are on the track towards the farm. It’s almost like an inverted bath plug where the cows in the field are the bath, the gateway is the plug hole and the track is the waste pipe. Looking at drone footage of something like haymaking or combining is quite mesmerising too. Watch an overhead view of a field of cut grass and then observe as a big tedder comes in, fluffs the hay around and then, switching the tedding reels, rows it up. Suddenly this fluffy grass is turned into thick pillow-like rows ready for the baler. Because of the size of the kit these days a 20-acre field can be quickly rowed up in an hour or so. The same goes for the combine harvester, and one with
a 14 or 16 foot head munches through the corn, spewing out the straw at the back and cleans the field very quickly, leaving just bare stubble around the straw. I also enjoy the overhead photography above any birds that are flying in the sky so you can look down on their backs. This is especially entertaining if the film can follow, say, a flock of geese and you can watch how they change places so that the lead bird takes a turn flying into the headwind and the others in the skein can use some of the slipstream for an easier flight. In time they will change places so they each do the legwork at the head of the flock. At the end of October, a trip to Dartmoor to meet some old friends resulted in a short hike to Wistman’s Wood near the hotel at Two Bridges close to the centre of the moor. This wonderful, enchanting and ancient temperate rainforest covers barely an acre but is a fascinating place to see mosses and lichens clinging to the stunted oak trees. The wood is in its own microclimate and is now being managed to prevent damage from people and livestock. It’s ecologically very important but also quite primaeval with heavy Dartmoor boulders covered in thick green carpets of different mosses. The oak trees too have cover on their trunks and branches of many species of lichen, and sometimes you will notice that a thick clump of moss on a branch has created a stable growing environment for other plants to actually root and survive. It’s certainly a place I would recommend visiting, as we need preserve these very rare habitats. I’ve recently finished Guy Shrubsole’s book The Lost Rainforests of Britain, which maps the locations in the western half of England, Wales and Scotland where these special places exist. A fascinating read.
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Field & Stream
blackmorevale.net
Storms, berries, bluetongue and later lambing by Tria Stebbing IN came the first named storm of the year – and Storm Austen certainly made its presence felt last weekend. The poor sheep, having enjoyed the long dry spell, have suddenly been thrown into almost continual weather fronts bringing wind and rain. Before the storm arrived, we had spent a weekend on field maintenance, which reminded us both that it is hard graft after a week working. We cleared an area of old decking boards and scrub and had a bonfire. There is still a lot more to do with the chainsaw, as many branches have come down, some across perimeter fences. Having neglected the pond over the summer, it is now very overgrown, and still very dry. There is still an amazing array of insects, berries, frogs and moths to see, some of which have
clearly become confused with the warmer seasons. The holly berries have been spectacular this year. Tradition says that a heavy crop of holly berries is believed to signal a harsh, bitter winter ahead. It is hoped, with the price of oil, which most rural properties rely on, that won’t be the case. But nature is providing for the birds. Bluetongue continues to weave its way across the country, with cases now in Dorset. We have decided to go ahead with loaning out the services of our ram – this year the ewes are coming to stay for a few weeks. As they are already resident in Dorset, it makes the decision easier for us. The flock of youngsters are currently grazing a local arboretum, choosing what to munch away at and picking their way around the stinging nettles. It would be handy if they would
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The ‘boys’ grazing the arboretum, relaxing between storms
just eat them, as they get left like solitary soldiers standing in the middle of the field, along with the docks. The youngsters will come off at the weekend, and we will top the rest off. I am sure they are looking forward to tupping. Having decided to lamb late again next spring we are way
behind many, but as always prefer the lighter evenings and, fingers crossed, better weather, so we can lamb outside. Nova and Nirvana, last year’s bottlefed lambs, will be going to the ram, too. I can’t wait to see what they produce and whether their bumpy start in life affects their ability to be good parents.
Litter pickers collect 13,000kg of rubbish HUNDREDS of litter picking groups in Wiltshire have collected almost 13 tonnes of waste in more than 2,000 bin bags so far this year. Wiltshire Council has thanked residents, community organisations and voluntary groups for the ‘fantastic work they do to help keep local areas clean and free from litter’. The council said so far in 2026, 275 community litter picking groups have collected nearly 13,000kg of litter in 2,071 bags. While praising their efforts, the council advised groups they must take appropriate safety precautions when taking part in a litter pick, including ensuring volunteers are wearing the correct equipment – including high-visibility clothing and
gloves – and not litter picking on highways or adjacent verges where there is a risk from traffic. “In particular, volunteers should avoid litter picking on roads with speed limits above 30mph, on high-speed rural roads, on A-roads, on country lanes, on dual carriageways or in locations with restricted visibility,” a spokesperson said. Cllr Martin Smith, cabinet member for Streetscene, added: “We want to say thank you to each and every one of our litter heroes, who do a wonderful job in all areas of the county to keep our communities clean and Wiltshire looking beautiful. “A fantastic 275 community litter-picking groups around the county have collected nearly 13,000kg of litter in 2,071 bags so far this year – about the
weight of a double-decker bus. “However, it’s essential that anyone picking up litter is safe while doing so. No litter is worth getting injured for. “That’s why we’re reminding volunteers to only work in safe locations with suitable footways or wide verges, wear appropriate high-visibility clothing and protective equipment. “We’re very grateful for the time and effort our volunteers give, and we want to ensure they can continue making a huge difference while staying safe themselves.” When taking part in a litter pick, Wiltshire Council said volunteers should: n Only work in safe locations with suitable footways or wide verges. n Wear appropriate high-
visibility clothing and protective equipment. n Face oncoming traffic at all times. n Only work during daylight hours and in good visibility conditions. n Ensure children are closely supervised and kept away from roads. n Never attempt to collect hazardous materials such as chemicals, sharps, asbestos or fly-tipped waste. These should be reported to the council for specialist removal. n Ensure there is a full risk assessment of activities. n Have appropriate insurance and comply with its conditions. For more on how to take part in a community litter pick in Wiltshire, visit wiltshire.gov.uk/ highways-streetscene-litter
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Items for sale
blackmorevale.net
CLASSIFIED ADS ILLUSION MOBILITY SCOOTER good condition £300 ONO 01963-364527.
GAS RAYBURN ROYAL, can be seen working, about to be taken out.
Details: Tel: 01258-820045
ELECTRIC LIFT & RECLINE CHAIR £300ono (Shaftesbury) 07811-834766 RENO ELITE POWERCHAIR Excellent condition £500
(Shaftesbury) 07811-834766 BMW R1200RT LC, 2014, blue, only 22,021 miles. Excellent condition, well maintained. Panniers, BMW Navigation system and many extras. Superb comfortable tourer. OIRO £4,200. Tel: 07738-216693
ROLLAWAY J-B FOLDING BED new £90
or near offer 01935-706998
DECOYS PIGEON, rook, magpie. Nets plus poles. Game bags. Bag come seat. Camping stove plus gas. More shooting items.
Offers evening 01963-32825
MOBILITY SCOOTER with battery & charger for sale, never used, bought in error, buyer collects, not for use in car boot, £350 01747 685496 AERO CARBON MANUAL FOLD SCOOTER. 13.8 kilos with battery only used 3 months. Offers ONO £1500. Bruton area 07731-641592
3 SMALL TRACTOR TYRES 4.10/3.5-4 (approx 9 inches) still serviceable. £5.00 each. Call/text 07767-390027
6 x GAS REGULATORS £10 Flymo Strimmer Contour 500E good condition £5 Tel. 07719-409647
INCINERATOR used £5 please ring 01935 813967
ORANGE PLASTIC SAFETY fencing mesh, brand new 50m roll. £5. 07971-001852
TOW ROPES, jump leads, compressor, lashing straps, inverter,etc. cash only £45 telephone 07870-757039 (Bourton) TREADMILL, Roger Black Gold AG-1032 with manual, Good condition, heavy item, Collection from Hindon, £50, Tel:01747 820296 CHILD’S TABLE & CHAIR set (1960’s) metal frame, melamine table top. £10 Tel 07767 221364 CAT FOOD. 35 cans 200g TROVET Hypoallergenic (adult) half price £35 01963 364362 for details 5 LARGE SACKS OF DRY WOOD Offcuts + 1 Large Sack of Dry KIndling £25 07939-393915 S/S SINK left hand drainer new £10 07791-570097
FREE CLASSIFIED ADS 3 ANTIQUE TRAVEL TRUNK/ CASES. £40. Tel: 07813-852614 MOTHERCARE TRAVEL COT. £15, 2 HIGH CHAIR BOOSTER SEATS. £5, RIDE ON TOYS £5, ALL VGC. T: 07855 179851 TREADMILL HARDLY USED £50. 01963-362662 BRAND NEW ARMITAGE SHANKS, contor 21, 36cm white hand basin. £30. Tel: 01963 210548
TWO SNOOKER CUES. 150cm/59” & 145cm/57”. Black rigid carry cases, chalks. Both vgc. Can sell separately. £45. Gillingham 07922 487573 ROYAL DOULTON Crystal Glasses, 6 sets of 6 Jug and Decanter all matching, 5 pounds per glass or new offer 01305 751692 CALOR GAS 7kg Butane Bottles 3 bottles at £10 each 07776-234022
BACARDI 1 ltre bottle x2 5pound each never been open simonf4@btinternet.com / 01722-338960 after 6pm
BOX OF BIG JIGS mixed wooden track railway, over 100 pieces, + bridges, trucks, engines £40.00 01747 854292.
TRIPLE EXTENSION LADDER. Aluminium 3 x 8ft Good condition. Buyer collects. £25. 01963 362564
VINTAGE CHINA 78 delicate green pink floral cream plates bowls tureen jugs etc £50 01747-825614
ION Slides2PC Film to Computer scanner Unused. £15, 07484-823477
OZZY OSBOURNE diary of a madman t-shirt good condition medium £20 07707 112910
ELEPHAS HOME MOVIE PROJECTOR with extension lead, used once. £20 07484-823477
THOUSAND PIECE PUZZLES all complete good condition £2.50 each Tel 01747 851296
NINJA BULLIT as new still in box used twice £25 01747-822874
YARD SALE - (closing Flying geese Gallery) Sunday 1st November 1-4pm West Pleck fm DT10 2EG
OFFICE/HOME CHAIR, black mesh, several adjusting positions for comfortable working. New this year, as new. £25.00. Could deliver to certain areas. T: 07814-630408 for info. LADIES HANDKNIT ARRAN cream cardigan size 12-14 Jaeger wool good condition. £20. 07485 107859
ARTIST`S MATERIALS FREE Paints, Card, Paper. Frames etc. 01747 822430 Gillingham 3.5 LITRE Slow Cooker. Tower brand. Almost new. £20. Tel: 07555-899650 10 BAGS OF SEASONED LOGS for sale. Plus a loose pile to be sawn. Good for open fire or wood burner. Buyer collects. £40 T: 01963-210401 HEAVY CAST IRON Christmas tree stand, matt green patina, £25. buyer collect 01747-830656 COT BED 56” x 28” with mattress and complete set bedding £30 01747 853942 WORLD OF BEATRIX POTTER Figurine Mrs Rabbit In Rocking Chair Border Fine Arts £25 07707-112910 ULTRAVIOLET TORCH by Alonefire. Model 9 LED unused £5 Gillingham 07963-319751 BOILER SUITS 5 LARGE, excellent condition £10 each or 2 for £15. Bruton area 07731-641592 LG SOUND BAR with wireless sub woofer and optical TV lead £40. 07803 126754
WANTED JAMES BUYS VINYL RECORDS. Call: 07970-769946 CIGARETTE CARDS WANTED. Bought for cash. Fair prices paid. Phone Kevin. 07907-888672 GARDENER WANTED, 1 day a fortnight. Must have working knowledge of plants for borders and vegetables. Refs essential. Kingston Deverill, Nr Mere. 07765 708461 WANTED AUDIO AND VISION EQUIPMENT, Including Hifi Separates, Turntables, Tape Decks, Amplifiers. Speaker Sytems like Sonos, Bose, B&W. Media including Vinyl Records, Mini Discs. Great prices paid, Call Andrew 07799-417711
OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392 602014 WESTCOUNTRY CHAP, looking to find a lady partner, to settle down and help in a farm house project. Tel/Text: 07894-243563
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Farming
blackmorevale.net
Day in the life of a vet: A summer of countryside shows! by John Walsh BVSc MRCVS DBR, director Friars Moor Livestock Health AS I write, autumn has well and truly arrived. A week of stormy weather is sweeping across fields that not long ago were parched and brown, the mornings have turned crisp and the hedgerows are beginning to change colour. It is a welcome shift. The grass is slowly coming back to life, and there is a sense of relief across the farming community after the hottest summer on record. There has, however, been a brighter side to the sunshine. This year’s countryside shows have enjoyed wonderful weather, with hardly a rain cloud in sight. As a practice, we
Agricultural shows are about far more than just a good day out
attend all the local shows, giving us the chance to meet clients and friends, thank them for their continued support and
introduce ourselves to prospective new farmers. This season took us to the Sherborne Castle Country Fair, the
Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Show, the Melplash Agricultural Show and the Dorset County Show. These shows are about far more than a good day out. They offer farmers a much-valued opportunity to socialise, while also keeping alive the proud tradition of showing pedigree animals. Breeders can showcase the stock they have worked hard to produce, with animals judged against strict breed standards alongside others of the same class. Success in the show ring can also increase an animal’s value, making these events important commercially as well as socially. They also play a vital educational role for visitors from non-farming backgrounds. For many families, a country show is one of the few opportunities to see farm animals up close and understand more about where their food comes from. For children in particular, it can be the spark Continued on page 82
Trusted farm veterinary care across Dorset, Wiltshire, Somerset & Hampshire An independent practice, owned and run by the team you’ll meet. Proudly serving the local farming community for over 65 years, providing expert livestock care you can rely on.
> Dairy cattle, beef, sheep, goats, game birds and camelids > Veterinary care 365 days a year > 24-hour Emergency Out of Hours service > In-house laboratory for rapid results and timely treatment > Discussion groups, training courses & consultancy services > Team of highly trained, professional, and friendly Vet Techs & Trimmers
Get in touch: farmoffice@fmlh.co.uk I 01258 472314 friarsmoorlivestockhealth.co.uk West Stour I Sturminster Newton I Blandford I Closworth I Shaftesbury
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New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Farming SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE / HIRE Tel: 01258 472288 Mob: 07977 936109 New and second hand containers - blue/green all with box locks Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
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HEDGE LAYING, hedge planting, woodland planting and coppicing. 20 years+ experience. Tel: 07929-995747. PIGLETS FOR SALE 16 weeks old kune kune x Oxford sandy and black, £100 each, Call 07970672003, Springhill poultry PIGMY GOATS female nanny’s and castrated males weathers available £250 each for females £150 each for males 3 years old. Please call 07970-672003, Springhill poultry Place your classified advert today
Two days and 500-plus animals, but TB testing is done with by Ruth Kimber SUMMER is at last behind us and autumn, with its colours, is now beginning to impress us. The fields have delivered a cut of silage, which will help towards the shortfall in our barns, with many other farms are doing the same. We have planted grass leys
Day in the life of a vet: Andrew Lee Vegetation Management country shows Call us on 01749 813957 or 07971 012628
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Working on slopes of up to 50 degrees with operator.
Continued from page 81
Contact Mobile: 07850489782 Email: andrewlee01@btinternet.com
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that lights a lifelong interest in agriculture, animal care and the tradition of showing livestock. At these events, we also enjoy helping people learn more about agriculture and what life as a vet involves. This year, we had a major upgrade to our calving simulator, thanks to Helen, one of my fellow directors, and her children. Young visitors can practise calving a cow and learn how to apply ropes to the feet and head. Once they have mastered the easier scenarios, I often introduce something more
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which has come through well, so it is hoped next year’s crops are secure. We had another bTB test, which was all clear – with well over 500 animals to test individually it’s no mean feat. On the first day, the vet clips and measures the skin thickness on each animal’s neck at two challenging, such as a breech calving. We also have a model lamb that receives no shortage of bandages and usually ends up looking more like a mummy than a lamb. It is wonderful to see the enjoyment on children’s faces as they get involved. Who knows – one of them may even become the next James Herriot. That is why it is so important that we keep the tradition of countryside and agricultural shows alive. I was very sorry to hear that the Sherborne Castle Country Fair will not be taking place again because of poor attendance. These events are a lifeblood for agricultural communities, bringing people together, celebrating rural skills and helping the wider public understand the work that goes into producing food and caring for animals. If we want them to continue, they need support – not only from farmers, but from everyone who values the countryside and the communities that keep it thriving.
TOP PRICES PAID Skips/HAIB lorry available for onsite collection
Tel 01258 860166 or 07974 822243
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Farming
blackmorevale.net injection sites. Avian tuberculin is injected into the upper site as a control, and bovine tuberculin into the lower site. Three days later the vet returns to read the reactions. We hire a mobile race, extra staff and lose two days’ valuable time. This test regime has not changed in my lifetime. False positives and inconclusive readings are frequent, which can condemn the animal to death, but, more often than not, no TB is found in the animal after it is slaughtered. However, the regulations call for two whole herd tests 60 days apart to be clear before the farm is released from TB restrictions. Preparation for the long winter when all the animals are housed is now in full swing. The turkeys are now big enough to be outside in the pastures – it is amazing how quickly they grow. It is 500 years since the turkey was introduced into the UK. We buy our turkeys as day
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olds from Kellys Hatcheries in Essex. Paul Kelly is heading up a celebration to mark the event. Turkeys and geese grown in Norfolk all those years ago were driven to London markets for Christmas. It took many weeks to do the journey without the birds losing weight. So, in November, turkeys around the country will be ‘walked’ to commemorate the 500th anniversary. We will be taking a few turkeys to Bath Farmers’ Market, but they will be penned, as a lot of customers bring their dogs to market and we can’t risk the birds being traumatised. Turkeys are difficult to drive, they prefer to follow, and, of course, they can fly! So, all in all, penning a few turkeys will be the best course of action. We are now taking orders for Christmas. The shop has many tempting things to buy other than food. I had an accident, with my shoulder coming off worse. I was knocked over, resulting in the tendons being torn in my
D O R S E T | D E V O N | S O M E R S E T | H A M P S H I R E | W I LT S H I R E | C O R N W A L L | L O N D O N
Friday 20th June STANDING STRAW AUCTION GomershayON-FARM Farm, Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton AUCTION Thursday 17th October at 11.00am Genuine DispersalWednesday of 2 Tractors,28th Telehandler, Parlour, Poly-Tunnel, June at24:24 6.30pm Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN Grassland & Livestock Equipment, Workshop Items, etc Bindon & Pinhay
The Grain Store, Rousdon, Dorset Genuine Dispersal ofHeathfield, Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer,
2021 Merlo TF 42.7 CS Turbo Farmer (2,690hrs), 2010 Case Puma 140 4 Tractors, 830ac 2 JCB Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up, of Standing Straw (10,939hrs), International 674 with Loader, 24:24 Fullwood Afimilk Parlour, Arable Machinery & Livestock Equipment • 461ac Wheat Cotswold Flush, Fullwood Auger Master Feeders, Ambic Teat Sprayer, 2000 • 237ac Winter Barley Fullwood 12,500ltr Fabdec Bulk Tank, ND Jeanes 15t Bulk Bin, Rowlands 20t High 2017 Claas Lexion 650 Combine with Vario 770 Header, Shelbourne Reynolds • 132ac Oats Discharge Bin, Mollasses Stand, 2018 Anka Pro FootSprayer, Trimming Crush, 2010 RSD20 Stripper Header,Tank 2011&Bateman RB17 (3,708hrs) 2019 Massey Marshall QM2 Silage Trailer, 2005 Joskin 11000ME Slurry Tanker, 2017 Keenan Ferguson 7720S Dyna6 (2,320hrs) & 7718 Dyna6 (2,880hrs), 2016 New Holland VA2-18 Feeder Wagon,Friday 2020 Aerworxx 10-30m Aerator, Lely Splendimo 280F 30th June at 122012 noon T7.210 (3,610hrs) & T7.200 (4,365hrs) Tractors, JCB 531-70 (2,145hrs) & Mower, 2012 Pottinger Lion 301Durweston 3m Power Harrow, Browns Flail Topper, 2002 1997 527-58 Telehandlers, Isuzu Rodeo Pick-Up, Pro5 18 Forklift, Major 700 Road Brush, Ifor2010 Williams TA510G LivestockDoosan Trailer, 2021 Merlo 8ft Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset McConnel 8.2mShear & 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Twose & Watson Rollers, Bucket, Wylie Grab, 25ft Single Axle Bale Trailer, Single10’ LegTandem Mole Plough, 6,220 acres of Standing Straw KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m PTO Cultivator, HRQuicke 4004 Hyd. Folding Teagle Tomahawk 4040 Bale Shredder, Mixit LagoonKuhn Stirrer, 210 Loader •Trailed 2,442ac Wheat Power Harrow, KV DXA Discs, KV LD85 5f Rev Plough,Shallow Kuhn VariBucket, Logic Contact 2004.7m Weed Wiper, 2009 Joskin 4300/209SDH Disc •McConnel 2,006acof3m Winter Barley Injector,153 Feed Large Quantity Electric Fencing Stakes, Reels & Fencers, Master 5fTrailer, Rev Plough, Shakerator, Kverneland TL Geospread Quantity Feed Troughs, Various FeedSpring Buckets, Mobile Milker,Topper, Hook onBomford Buckets, • 1,557ac Barley FertiliserofSpreader, McConnel Magnum Euro 280 Hyd Offset Wydale Teat Feeders, Parlour Parlour Fans, Calftel Group Various • 178ac Oats Hawk 6m Hedgecutter, KuhnMatting, FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Hutches, Stewart 16-21L Field & Yard Gates, 32mm•Water ParlourRape Quantity of Astro Turf, Oil Seed Grain Trailers, Marshall BC2537ac BalePipe, Trailer, CattleSpares, Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit), Emergency Bulk Tank, Concrete Water Troughs, 60ft x 30ft Poly Tunnels. Machine Spares, Workshop Items, Weights, etc. Further entries invited.
Friday 7th July at 12 noon Wynford Eagle The Grain Store, Manor Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester, Dorset It is 500 years since turkeys were introduced into the UK 1298 acres of Standing Straw • 599ac Wheat right shoulder. It was very to six weeks. It’s so difficult • 281ac Winter Barley painful when it happened, but I without • 119ac Spring Barleymy right hand and arm have had the repair done and • 229acbut OatsI’m lucky it wasn’t more have to stay in a sling for fourOil Seed serious. • 70ac Rape Full catalogues available at symondsandsampson.co.uk D O R S E T | D E V O N | S O M E R S E T | H A M P S H I R E | W I LT S H I R E | C O R N W A L L | L O N D O N
Mob: 07966 244536 Hydraulic Hose Specialists and Stockists to the Agriculture, Forestry, Automotive and Transport Industry Pneumatic fittings Quick release couplings Air brake fittings Pressure wash hoses + lances Hose clamps Up to 1 ½ “Hose stocked Hydraulic Hoses Variation of oils Mobile service available
Friday 20th June at 10.30am Thursday 19th November STANDING STRAW AUCTION GomershayON-FARM Farm, Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton AUCTION Alweston, Sherborne, Dorset Thursday 17th October at 11.00am Genuine DispersalWednesday of 2 Tractors,28th Telehandler, Parlour, Poly-Tunnel, June at24:24 6.30pm On behalf of Spicer Partners Online bidding available Silverlake Farm, Sherborne, DT9 6SN Grassland & Livestock Equipment, Workshop Items, etc Collective Sale ofBindon Tractors, Telehandler, Sprayer, & Pinhay
TheMachinery Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset Livestock Equipment Genuine Dispersal of& Combine, Self Propelled Sprayer, 2021 TF 42.7 CS Turbo Farmer (2,690hrs), 2010 Casebidding Puma 140 On behalf ofMerlo John Swain Limited Online available STANDING AUCTIONS 4 Tractors, 2 JCB(Retiring) Telehandlers, Forklift, Pick-Up, 830ac of STRAW Standing Straw (10,939hrs), International 674 with Loader, 24:24 Fullwood Afimilk Entries to date inc:Machinery Valtra T234 (20), Valtra N154 (18) &Parlour, John Arable & Livestock Equipment • 461ac Wheat Contact Ridout: 01935 382909 / 07817 517467 Cotswold Flush,Greg Fullwood Auger Master Feeders, Ambic Teat Sprayer, 2000 Wednesday 25th June ON-FARM DISPERSAL AUCTION Deere 6410 Tractors, 35.7 & 32.6 Telehandlers, Bateman •Merlo 237ac Winter Barley Fullwood 12,500ltr Fabdec Bulk ND Jeanes 15t Bulk Bin, Rowlands 20t High 2017 Claas Lexion 650 Combine with Vario 770 Header, Shelbourne Reynolds Pinhay and Bindon – Tank, The Grain Store, Heathfield, RB35 & RB15 (24m) Sprayers, Claas Liner 3600 4 Rousdon Rotor Crush, Rake (16), • 132ac Oats Discharge Bin, Mollasses Tank &Bateman Stand, 2018 Anka Pro FootSprayer, Trimming 2010 RSD20 Stripper Header, 2011Saturday RB17 (3,708hrs) 2019 Massey Approx. 1,000ac of Standing Straw 29th July Horsch QM2 Terrano 6FX Cultivator, Amazone Combination 2 Marshall Silage Trailer, 2005 Joskin 11000ME3m Slurry Tanker, 2017Drill, Keenan Ferguson 7720SBuckham Dyna6 (2,320hrs) & 7718 Dyna6 (2,880hrs), 2016 New Holland Down Farm, Beaminster DT8 3SH VA2-18 Feeder Wagon, 2020 Aerworxx 10-30m Aerator, Lely Splendimo 280F no. Bunning Rear Discharge Spreaders, Vacuum Tankers, Smyth and Friday 27th June Friday 30th June at 12 noon T7.210 (3,610hrs) & T7.200 (4,365hrs) Tractors, 2012 JCB 531-70 (2,145hrs) & Mower, 2012 Pottinger Lion – 301 3m Power Harrow, Browns Flail Quad Topper,Trailer, 2002 Pinhay and Bindon –3 The Grain Store, Heathfield, Richard Western Trailers no. 14t and 2 no. 16t, Rousdon IW Durweston 1997 527-58 Telehandlers, Isuzu Rodeo Pick-Up, Doosan Pro5 and 18 Forklift, Dispersal saleApprox. ofIfor 42010 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones Major 700 Road Brush, Williams TA510G Livestock Trailer, 2021 Merlo 8ft 8,5000ac of Standing Straw Attachments, Twyman Post Banger, 15kva Generator, Hydrovane Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset McConnel 8.2mShear & 6.3m Cambridge Rollers, Twose & Watson Rollers, Bucket, Wylie Grab, 25ftMiscellaneous Single Axle Bale Trailer, Single10’ LegTandem Mole Plough, Compressor, Gates, Cattle Hurdles, IAE Sheep Turnover Crate, 6,220 acres of Standing Straw KRM Sola Ares 2713 Drill, Vaderstad NZ 6m Cultivator, Kuhn HRQuicke 4004 Hyd. Folding Teagle Tomahawk 4040 Bale Shredder, Mixit PTO Lagoon Stirrer, 210 Loader •Trailed 2,442ac Wheat Creep Feeders, etc. Power Harrow, KV DXA Discs, LD85 5f Rev Plough, Kuhn VariBucket, Logic Contact 2004.7m Weed Wiper, 2009 Joskin 4300/209SDH Shallow Disc Including: 1995 Same Silver 80KV 4wd (6,800hrs), 1988 •McConnel 2,006acof3m Winter Barley Injector,153 Feed Large Quantity Electric Fencing Stakes, Reels & Fencers, Master 5fTrailer, RevExplorer Plough, Shakerator, Kverneland TL Geospread Same 70 4wd with Loader (4,700hrs),1973 Quantity ofSpreader, Feed Troughs, Various FeedSpring Buckets, Mobile Milker,Topper, Hook onBomford Buckets, • 1,557ac Barley Fertiliser Magnum EuroInternational 280 Hyd Offset Ford 4000McConnel (fully restored), 1976 454Hutches, 2wd, Various Wydale Teat Feeders, Parlour Matting, Parlour Fans, Calftel Group • 178ac Oats Our Agents will be at Hawk 6m Hedgecutter, Kuhn FC313 TG Mower Conditioner, 2 x Stewart 16-21L SM632mm DropWater Side Pipe, Silage Trailer, Markham 3t Tipping FieldMarshall & Yard Gates, Parlour Spares, Quantity of Astro Turf, • 37ac Oil Seed Rape Grain Trailers, Marshall BC25 Bale Trailer, Cattle Hurdles, Attachments (Q-Fit), Trailer, PortAgric 6’ Topper, TS59 & Poly TS90 Emergency Bulk Tank, Concrete WaterRansomes Troughs, 60ft x 30ft Tunnels. Machine Spares, Workshop Items, Weights, etc.
The Dairy Event
Cote Farm Works, Kilmington, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6RF Email: hoses@ardiesels.co.uk
entries invited. & TS91 Ploughs, Further Krone AM242Z Mower Conditioner, Friday 7th July at 12 noon Feeders, Engines,2 Signs, Bygones, etc. onStationary Wednesday, October Wynford Eagle The Grain Store,Online Manorbidding Farm, Wynford Eagle, Dorchester, available entries welcome. Please callFurther in tosuitable ourDorset stand for refreshments 1298 acres of Standing Straw517467 experts and to meet our rural and agricultural Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 Please Greg Ridout 07817 517467 Contact Gregcontact Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 517467 • 599ac Wheat • 281ac Winter Barley • 119ac Spring Barley SALES | LETTINGS | AUCTIONS | PLANNING | NEW HOMES RESIDENTIAL | AGRICULTURAL • 229ac Oats | COMMERCIAL symondsandsampson.co.uk • 70ac Oil Seed Rape
Full catalogues available at symondsandsampson.co.uk
84
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Property
blackmorevale.net
R E2:00PM | C O R N WA L L | LO N D O N D O R S E T | D E V O N | SPROPERTY O M E R S EAUCTION T | H A MFRIDAY P S H I R20 E NOVEMBER | W I LT S H IAT AT DIGBY MEMORIAL HALL, DIGBY ROAD, SHERBORNE,DT9 3NL
Ferndown
Guide £7,500
0.20 acres (0.08 hectares) of unmanaged land within the residential area of Ameysford, north of Ferndown. Freehold. Wimborne | 01202 843190
Longburton
Guide £15,000
0.55 acres of secluded yet easily accessible land, surrounded by woodland with a spring-fed pond, and direct access off the highway. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Morcombelake
Guide £30,000
An attractive 1.84 acre sloping pasture field in an elevated position boasting fine views over the village towards the sea and Golden Cap. Freehold. Axminster | 01297 33122
Lamyatt
Guide: Lot A £950,000 Lot B £315,000
143.59 acres of gently undulating pasture land with mature trees and areas of steeper woodland, set to the east of the village. Available in two lots. Lot A 120.79 ac. Lot B 22.80 ac. Freehold. Yeovil | 01935 423526
Mappowder Guide £595,000 A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Marnhull Guide £525,000 A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and southfacing gardens. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Longburton
Creech
Guide £37,500
A unique Grade II listed former chapel offering an abundance of character, presenting a rare opportunity for a variety of future uses (STRC). Freehold. Sherborne | 01935 814488
Salwayash
Guide £180,000
A charming 2 bedroom barn conversion for holiday use or as a second home in a delightful rural location with countryside views. CTB D. EPC F. Freehold. Bridport | 01308 422092
Guide £195,000
A semi-derelict cottage with a range of outbuildings, occupying a secluded setting, set within approximately 2.32 acres of grounds. CTB D. EPC G. Freehold. Wimborne | 01202 843190
Weymouth
Guide £195,000
Dating from circa 1900, a charming cottage close to Weymouth harbour with 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 3 bedrooms, first floor study and an enclosed garden. CTB C. EPC D. Freehold. Weymouth | 01305 756989
Shroton Guide £435,000 North Cheriton OIEO £400,000 This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this most desirable an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over village. CTB D. Freehold. the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold. Sherborne Newton Guide £200,000 Guide £225,000 Guide: Lot A £215,000 - Lot B £185,000 Mere Sturminster | 01258 473766Buckland Newton Sherborne | 01935 814488 This detached 3 bedroom bungalow occupies a generous corner plot in a sought-after area, in need of renovation, offering flexible accommodation and excellent potential for improvement. CTB D. EPC D. Freehold.
Two semi-detached cottages situated in a rural location in need of modernisation. Lot A is a 3 bedroom property in 0.37 acres including a Dutch barn. Lot B offers 2 bedrooms in 0.35 acres. The buyer of Lot A will have the first option to purchase Lot B for a fixed price of £195,000. If the buyer of Lot A does not purchase, then Lot B will be offered to the room. Both CTB C. Lot A EPC E. Lot B EPC G. Freehold.
An attractive end of terrace providing scope for modernisation. 3 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, and a generous garden with outbuildings, located in a historic small town in Wiltshire. CTB B. EPC D. Freehold.
Sherborne | 01935 814488
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Bournemouth Guide £250,000 Christchurch Guide £275,000 Nr Sturminster Newton A detached 3 bedroom propertyGuide with PriceAn£1,100,000 attractive 2 bedroom property, conveniently off-road away parkingdown with EV charging just off the and High Street. Offered with Tucked a no through lane islocated this extended very well point, and a 4 generous rearcountry garden, home with vacant possession, property would presented bedroom stable yard the & paddocks, in make total conveniently located for local amenities an ideal buy-to-let investment, holiday let or 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, and road links. Freehold. CTB D. EPC D. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766private residence. Freehold. CTB C. EPC C.
Chedington Guide £375,000 Milborne Port Guide £395,000 Leigh 3 bedroom bungalow in 0.63 OIEO £500,000 Detached GII listed thatched cottage with 3 acres, with excellent modernisation bedrooms, period features, set within A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious potential. Situated inset a sought after village, wrap-around gardens, parking and accommodation, in attractive gardens and backing ontowith farmland. enjoying viewschain. across CTB the surrounding No onward F. Freehold. double garage, offering exciting potential countryside. Freehold. CTB D. EPC G. for renovation. Freehold. CTB E. EPC D. Sherborne | 01935 814488
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Beaminster | 01308 863100
Sherborne | 01935 814488
R E S I D E N T I A L | A G R I C U LT U R A L | C O M M E RC I A L
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
85
Property
blackmorevale.net
D O R S E T | D E V O N | S O M E R S E T | H A M P S H I R E | W I LT S H I R E | C O R N W A L L | L O N D O N
Shaftesbury Guide £1,150,000 Mappowder Guide £595,000 A bespoke, detached, 4 bedroom house atop Cann; on the edge of A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, Shaftesbury with truly stunning views, large driveway and parking. a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and Freehold. CTB F; EPC C. surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 Sturminster Newton 01258 473766
Stoke Trister Guide £1,100,000 Marnhull Guide £525,000 An equestrian complex with large farmhouse and excellent facilities A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village set in approximately 8.7 acres with fields, stables, walker and menage. location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and southFreehold. CTB F; EPC E. facing gardens. CTB E. Freehold. Sturminster Newton|| 01258 01258473766 473766 Sturminster Newton
Stalbridge Guide £900,000 Shroton Guide £435,000 A handsome 5 bedroom Victorian farmhouse offering a wealth of This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated period charm. Large private garden, extensive parking and but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this mostversatile desirable barns outbuildings village.and CTB D. Freehold.with exciting potential. Freehold. CTB F; EPC D.
Fontmell Magna Guide £405,000 North Cheriton OIEO £400,000 A laterally arranged 3 bedroom house with impressive circular reception An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on room in the very heart of the village. Front and rear gardens. an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over Freehold. CTB D;countryside. EPC D. the neighbouring CTB C. Freehold.
Sturminster Newton || 01258 473766 473766 Sturminster Newton
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sherborne | 01935 814488
LARKSMEAD GARDENS
Open House Saturday 14th November 10am - 12pm Enjoy barista coffee & cake on us!
Come and see the Georgian-style energy-efficient homes, the south-facing gardens, and how the site-wide rewilding has naturalised, creating a welcoming environment in which to live.
Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000 Leigh OIEO £500,000 Competitively priced to sell: 3-bedroom £440,000 | 4-bedroom £539,000 Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious presented 4 bedroomdetails: country home with stable yard & paddocks, in total accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland. For further 01258 452670 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold. blandford@symondsandsampson.co.uk Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Sherborne | 01935 814488
R E S I D E N T I A L | A G R I C U LT U R A L | C O M M E RC I A L
86
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
Property TO LET Nr SHERBORNE 1 & 2 BED COTTAGES, self-catering, extended winter stays available www.whitehorsefarm.co.uk 01963-210222 SELF-CONTAINED ACCOMMODATION on quiet farm near Yeovil 01935 892476
WANTED: PROPERTY TO RENT SOLVENT RETIRED GENT, looking for property to rent in the New Year, 2-3 bedrooms, ideally rural location. 6 months min, possibly long term. Proof of funds available on request. Tel: 07979-305088. email: derekjohnson1@hotmail.co.uk
Advertising made
‘Doer-upper’ has lots of potential
THIS end-of-terrace house on the outskirts of Fordington, not far from Dorchester town centre, has the potential to make a superb family home, say the agents. The property needs to be completely modernised but is on an unusually generous plot, comes with a garage and is for sale with vacant possession. The accommodation on the ground floor features entrance hall, kitchen/breakfast room, large utility room, modern shower room, sitting room and
separate dining room with French doors to the back garden. The first floor has three double bedrooms and a family bathroom. The house is within the catchment area for several schools, including Manor Park First School, Dorchester Middle School and The Thomas Hardye School. The property is for sale at a guide price of £350,000 – for more details, contact Symonds & Sampson on 01305 261008.
simple
01963 400186 | adverts@blackmorevale.net
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(from pages 40-41)
Edition 160
Sudoku 3D puzzle
Cryptic crossword
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K T E N F E T A
New Blackmore Vale, November 6, 2026
87
LOW COST SECURE SELF STORAGE
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